OGCS Team Completes Aberdeen Kiltwalk in Support of AberNecessities

Five members of the OGCS team successfully completed the Aberdeen Kiltwalk on Sunday, 7 June, raising funds and awareness for local charity AberNecessities.

Elizabeth Robertson, David Taylor, Craig Milne, Emily Sherriff and Alan Duncan joined around 5,500 participants from across the region for the annual event, taking on the 18-mile Mighty Stride route through Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Conditions could hardly have been better for the challenge, with a comfortable mix of sunshine and cloud and temperatures of around 15–17°C providing ideal walking weather. The team set off in great spirits, proudly wearing matching purple AberNecessities t-shirts, complemented by a mix of traditional kilts and walking gear.

Covering 18 miles in an impressive 5.5 hours, the team showed determination and teamwork, completing the challenge together while helping to raise funds and awareness for a cause close to their hearts.

Reflecting on the day, Elizabeth Robertson said:

"It was a fantastic day from start to finish. The weather was perfect for walking, the atmosphere was incredible, and it was inspiring to see thousands of people coming together to support so many worthwhile causes. Completing the Mighty Stride as a team made the achievement even more rewarding."

This year, AberNecessities had 73 walkers taking part in the Aberdeen Kiltwalk, including 48 people completing the Mighty Stride and 25 participants, including 15 children, taking on the four-mile Wee Wander. Together, they have raised over £10k, with donations still coming in.

OGCS chose to support AberNecessities, a charity dedicated to helping underprivileged families across North East Scotland. From maternity bundles to clothing, nappies, toys, books and essential equipment for children aged 0–18, the charity provides practical support to families facing challenging circumstances, alongside small comforts that can make a meaningful difference.

Pauline May, Fundraising Manager of AberNecessities said:

"We are incredibly grateful to receive this support from OGCS. AberNecessities' primary goal is to make sure no child goes without, and every donation we receive makes a real impact. Sadly, one in four children live in poverty in Aberdeen and, with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, this is unlikely to improve. We couldn't support as many local families as we do without support like this."

Alan Duncan, SVP Contract Management, OGCS said:

"AberNecessities carries out vital work in our local communities, and we're proud to have supported them through this year's Kiltwalk. The event was a great example of people coming together to make a positive difference, and I'm incredibly proud of the commitment shown by everyone on the OGCS team."

With fundraising totals still being counted, the team is delighted to have played a part in what is expected to be another hugely successful year for the Aberdeen Kiltwalk, helping AberNecessities continue its invaluable work supporting families across the north-east of Scotland.

Everyone at OGCS congratulates Elizabeth, David, Craig, Emily and Alan on completing the Mighty Stride and thanks everyone who donated and supported their fundraising efforts.