Local fundraisers complete epic Dusk2Dawn 50k challenge

The event in aid of The Leanne Fund was a great success raising more than £4,000 to support those with Cystic Fibrosis across the Highlands and Islands and Grampian.

Sixty walkers left Perceval Square at 8pm and followed trails around Lews Castle Grounds assisted by local TA volunteers. They then took in a loop of Newvalley, Benside and Bakers Road before heading out to Point, taking in a loop of Bayble, then Knock and returning to Stornoway to complete.

First across the line in an amazing time of 8 hours 19 minutes were Sara Anne MacQueen, Kirsteen Stewart and Marina Gomez.

Chrisetta Mitchell from Team Leanne who organised the event said: “This year’s event was a great success and we are very grateful to all those who took part and supported The Leanne Fund.

“Every penny raised through entry fees and sponsorship goes towards supporting those with Cystic Fibrosis and really does make a difference to their lives and their families.

“We are also indebted to the volunteers who assisted throughout the night and also to local businesses for their generosity in supporting the event.

“A massive thank you to Tesco Stornoway for generously donating all the bananas and Mars bars for our event. Thanks also to Duncan Mackay & Sons for loan of traffic cones to help keep our walkers safe and thanks to Stornoway Police for their support with traffic management.

“We are also so grateful to the Ionad Stoodie committee for giving us the use of such a wonderful facility for the night and would also like to thank the Caberfeidh Hotel, Body & Sole, the Sports Shop, Boots, Superdrug, Ishga and Hebridean Cottage Crafts for the fantastic raffle prizes.”

Participant Michelle Macleod said: “It was a fantastic experience from start to finish. It was certainly tough but team spirit and some lovely support and refreshments to refuel at the check points made it so much easier. Roll on the next one!”

Tony Robson who also took part said: “A beautiful night, great company and very good cause!”

There is still time to donate in support of those who took on the challenge, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Dusk2Dawn50k2016

The Leanne Fund was set up in 2009 in memory of Leanne Mitchell from the Isle of Lewis.

The charity funds special treats and a range of support services for young people affected by Cystic Fibrosis and their families across the region.