Greenock man takes on 192-mile double West Highland Way Challenge for Erskine Veterans Charity

A Greenock man is set to embark on an extraordinary endurance challenge to support Erskine Veterans Charity, which provides care and support for ex-service personnel across Scotland.

Dave Graham, 50, a long-time supporter of the charity, will take on the gruelling Double West Highland Way Challenge—a 192-mile trek from Milngavie to Fort William and back in just seven days—to raise vital funds for Erskine.

Dave’s support of the charity began back to 2008 when he first took part in a 5K charity run in Bellahouston Park alongside the Marines, completing the race while carrying a fully loaded Bergen. However, his fitness declined over the years, particularly during a difficult period when his wife, Polly, faced a major health scare.

In 2020, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Polly was diagnosed with three brain aneurysms, two of which were dangerously close to rupturing. With hospitals under strict lockdown measures, she underwent two major surgeries alone, adding to the trauma of an already harrowing experience. Thankfully, she has since recovered, and now, determined to rebuild his fitness while supporting a cause close to his heart, Dave is preparing to take on his biggest challenge yet.

Setting off on Saturday, 19th April, Dave aims to complete the round-trip by Friday, 25th April. A lifelong enthusiast of extreme sports and endurance events, he is confident in his ability to conquer the challenge.

Dave said: “I have always been into extreme sports and keeping in shape, so I have the mentality that I enjoy challenges. Doing the West Highland Way Double has always been on my bucket list and now seems like as good a time as any to give it a go. It’s a major challenge to complete in just seven days, so I figured this would be a great opportunity to raise funds for Erskine. The support and donations from family and friends have been amazing.”

Erskine’s Head of Fundraising, Sara Bannerman, said: “The funds Dave is raising for Erskine Veterans Charity will help provide crucial care and support to veterans and their families. Every donation makes a difference! We wish Dave good luck and have every confidence he will complete the challenge he has set himself.”

If you would like to support Dave on his epic challenge for Erskine Veterans Charity, visit his JustGiving page at https://bit.ly/41DvkdS

For further information please contact Susan Hamilton, Communications Officer, on 0141 814 4719 or email susan.hamilton@erskine.org.uk

To find out more about Erskine’s work please visit our website at www.erskine.org.uk, follow on twitter @ErskineCharity via Facebook www.facebook.com/ErskineVeteransCharity

To donate directly to Erskine, please visit Erskine.org.uk/donate.