Veterans And Families Step Out On Mission To Uncover Edinburgh's Secrets

from The Trinity Spotlight May/June 2023 Issue

Jamie Primrose Contemporary Scottish Artist

Falklands and Gulf War veteran Graham Walker and his family are setting off on a new mission – to discover the hidden secrets of Edinburgh. Graham, a Royal Navy veteran and retired college lecturer from Fife, and his wife, Marion, are taking up Poppyscotland’s challenge to complete the 10km Poppy Quest, while solving clues along the way.

Entries are now open for the Poppy Quest Edinburgh, a family-friendly fundraising challenge for all ages on Saturday 3rd June. A similar event will take place in Glasgow on Saturday 10th June. The charity is encouraging groups and individuals to test their observation skills and ingenuity – as well as their legs – and rediscover their city, while supporting Scotland’s Armed Forces community.

Participants will be provided with a map and a series of questions to navigate a route around the city, with the chance to win prizes for raising funds. There will also be a special competition for youth group teams, with a trophy for the fastest time with all questions answered correctly. Starting and finishing from Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Canonmills, they will also be invited to take a tour of the newly refurbished factory. The route will take in Calton Hill, Princes Street Gardens, the Water of Leith, and many famous and lesserknown landmarks. All funds raised will go to support Poppyscotland’s work, providing advice and support to former and current servicemen and women and their families.

Graham said: “Poppy Quest is a great day out and we’re really looking forward to doing it again. We thought we knew Edinburgh quite well, but this is a nice way to see the city and learn some more along the way. It’s important that veterans know that support is out there if they need it and Poppyscotland is always there for them.”

Gordon Michie, Poppyscotland’s Head of Fundraising, said: “Poppy Quest is a fantastic way to explore Edinburgh and discover the city’s hidden gems We’re encouraging families, groups, and individuals to challenge themselves, and stretch their minds and legs along the way! You don’t need to pass a military fitness test to take part – it’s suitable for all ages and abilities, with four-legged friends welcome as well. Starting from Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, you can take your time, enjoy the scenery and architecture, and perhaps even have a picnic en-route. All funds will go to support our life-changing work with our Armed Forces community. We are seeing unprecedented demand for support now, as men, women, and families throughout Scotland struggle with the cost-of-living crisis. So why not put on your walking shoes, and join us for a unique day out for a great cause?”

Registration costs are £14 for adults, £6 for 10-17 year olds, while children aged 9 and under are free. All participants will receive a map, quiz and Poppy Quest pin badge, with medals and t-shirts for raising funds. Full support will be given prior to the walk, including a fundraising pack and preparation ideas.

Find out more and register at www.poppyscotland.org.uk/poppy-quest