Launch of Kiltwalk fundraiser 2016

Philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter made the comments at the official launch of the national event which will see more than 10,000 walkers sign-up to raise more than £1.5 million for children’s charities across Scotland.

Sir Tom Hunter called for an absolute focus on ridding Scotland of children’s poverty.

He said: “Scotland can lead the world in becoming the first nation to eradicate child poverty; we can’t ignore it, we can change it so every child has the opportunity to be all they can be. It falls upon our generation to tackle this and tackle it we should; we are small enough, agile enough and committed enough to get this done.”

The philanthropist was launching The Kiltwalk for 2016 reiterating his commitment to underwrite all the costs so that every single penny, every single pound raised by walkers will go to supporting children’s charities across Scotland.

He also announced a three-year partnership deal with the STV Children’s Appeal and that The Royal Bank of Scotland and Arnold Clark are joining The Kiltwalk as key strategic partners.

Sir Tom Hunter, speaking at the National Stadium Hampden Park, said he was confident Kiltwalk will become Scotland’s biggest mass participation event - and it’s those who need it most who will benefit.

He continued: “The Royal Bank of Scotland, Arnold Clark and the STV Children’s Appeal share our vision that we can and will stamp out child poverty as well as helping young people most in need all across Scotland and I’m delighted to welcome them as key partners; hopefully we will welcome many more.”

Kiltwalk has raised £2.4 million since 2011 and charities who have benefited include the Yorkhill Children’s Unit at the new Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Glasgow and Calum’s Cabin on Bute which gives respite to the families of terminally ill children.

The dates for The Kiltwalk 2016 are: April 24 (Glasgow), June 5 (Aberdeen), August 14 (Speyside) and September 18 (Edinburgh).

To register go to thekiltwalk.co.uk