On the run for charity

CLARKSTON man David Bruce is on a gruelling fundraising trail in the hope of helping Glasgow’s homeless population.

David (40) featured in The Extra last year after running the London Marathon in aid of Hope for Autism — and on April 13 of this year, he’ll bring the charity cash closer to home by running for Glasgow City Mission.

He told The Extra: “It’s my second time running the London Marathon, although it’ll be my sixth marathon.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I got in through the ballot process, which meant I didn’t have to raise money for charity to get a place. But I really feel the whole ethos of London is raising money or awareness for charities, and felt it was necessary to pick a local charity to benefit from any cash I raised.

“I attend church services at Clarkston Baptist Church and Glasgow City Mission is one the charities they collect for (money and food).

“I then went along to visit the centre and saw how GCM worked — they don’t just hand out some food and cups of tea once a week. They aim to really change people’s lives and it’s truly amazing.”

David is now in training, hitting the streets of East Renfrewshire and joining running club Glasgow South Road Runners on their city park circuits.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The fundraiser will also be tackling the Edinburgh Marathon, Men’s 10k, Glasgow Half Marathon and his first Ultramarathon in 2014.

David is aiming for a total of £1,500 for the homeless charity — although he’d also like to reach his running number for this year, 1852 — and is already on his way, with £587 in donations so far.

Graham Steven, of Glasgow City Mission, said the charity was “delighted” at David’s support, and added: “It’s always encouraging when local people want to take a stand and make a difference to the lives of vulnerable and homeless people on their own doorstep.

“All of the money that David raises will be spent in Glasgow providing much-needed practical care to those who are homeless and trapped in desperate poverty.”

To follow his progress, or to sponsor the GCM runner, visit www.justgiving.com/David-Bruce2014.