Friday May 15th 2026
Team finish photo (left to right): Caroline, Dawn, Fiona, Paul, Lee and Vida
Written by Glasgow View Reporter, Liam Eunson
A tartan-tastic team took a mammoth challenge in their stride recently – completing the 2026 Glasgow Kiltwalk and smashing their fundraising target.
East Dunbartonshire Befriending Service ‘plaid it cool’ when its squad successfully tackled the ‘Big Stroll’ 14.5-mile challenge on Saturday 25 April.
The caring clan had originally aimed to raise £1,000, but so far they’ve drummed up more than £3,000 for the charity (including Gift Aid).
Colleagues Dawn Bunce, Caroline McGladdery, Fiona Friel, and Vida Aba Bonney took part, along with volunteers and friends Paul Harrison, Lee Hodgkinson, Geraldine McCann and Lynn Ralph.
Lesley Shaw was unfortunately unable to walk due to injury, but still played a key team role – providing transport, support, inspiration and recovery packs at the finish line.
The walkers went the distance for East Dunbartonshire Befriending Service (EDBS), which works tirelessly to tackle loneliness and isolation.
The charity currently helps more than 100 local residents and has nearly 50 volunteer befrienders who provide free support on a one-to-one basis, in group settings and via telephone – whether it be due to a decline in health/mobility, bereavement or relocation.
Groups run once a month in three areas of East Dunbartonshire, giving those who are awaiting a one-to-one match the opportunity to join a social gathering for a cuppa and blether. There is also a popular lunch club three times a week in Kirkintilloch.
EDBS Service Manager Dawn Bunce said, “We had a beautiful day with the sun shining and great company. The nature all around was stunning – so peaceful and good for the soul.
“We were determined to complete the walk for the good of the service and the people who rely on it so much. We have amazing volunteers and an incredible team – we give our hearts to our roles – and wouldn’t back down from the challenge.
“To see so many people walking for their chosen charity was humbling and there was a real sense of being in it together – a true community with giving at the centre of what we were doing.
“It was easier for some more than others, but we were so determined. My mum, Maddie – also a volunteer – was at the finish with my daughter, Poppie. I even kept my promise to go for a dook in Loch Lomond, with Paul and Fiona!
“Thankfully there were no blisters and only happy memories from the day. Thanks to everyone who supported us and donated.”
You can still help by visiting https://wonderful.org/fundraisers/RpBLM.
Donations can also be handed into the office at Units 4+5, 18-20 Townhead, Kirkintilloch. Visit www.facebook.com/edbefriending and https://edbs.org.uk for more information on EDBS.
Every penny raised supports the non-profit organisation to continue to help the people of East Dunbartonshire – covering costs, events and more.
The service’s main funder is East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership, but it also relies on public donations and support from the likes of East Dunbartonshire Council’s Community Grants Scheme, National Lottery Awards for All Scotland and the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund to help pay the bills.
EDBS is keen to hear from any businesses who may wish to sponsor the charity on a monthly basis – email info@edbs.org.uk or call 0141 345 0432.
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