South East and Central Scotland

FIRSTGROUP PUTS ITS HEART BEHIND OUR HEROES

The Poppyscotland Hearts & Heroes Challenge fundraiser received a welcome boost with a generous donation of £2,000 from FirstGroup " the worlds leading transport company.

The award was made by Firsts Charities and Sponsorship Committee, which was set up last year to consider requests for funding and gifts from groups and organisations across the country.

To present the cheque to the organisers of the Hearts & Heroes Challenge " ahead of the event on Saturday 16 May " the Managing Director of bus operator First in Scotland East, Paul Thomas, joined Borders rugby players and soldiers from 52 Lowland Brigade, 6 Scots, Galashiels detachment at Melrose Rugby Football Club, the event finish point.

Handing over the cheque, Paul said: "It is a real honour to present these funds to such a worthwhile cause and I commend all those who will be taking part in the Hearts & Heroes Challenge. This really is a significant challenge of both physicality and mentality that will benefit three fantastic charities and I am delighted that First is lending support in this way. I wish everyone the very best of luck for a successful event.'

Accepting the donation on behalf of the three organising charities was Jim Littlefair, Chairman of Hearts & Balls, which provides help for injured rugby players.

Jim said: "We are very grateful to FirstGroup for its generous donation. The event brings together rugby clubs, the Services and companies in support of those who need and deserve it from our respective communities. Firsts support will make a real difference to the lives of injured sportspeople and veterans in Scotland.'

The challenge is held in aid of sporting charities, The Sportsmans Charity and Hearts & Balls, along with veterans charity, Poppyscotland. All funds raised through donations and sponsorship will go to help injured sportsmen and women as well as veterans and their dependants living in Scotland.

The 12-hour, 29-mile challenge begins at the southern end of the picturesque St Marys Loch, and works its way along the stunning Southern Upland Way, finishing in the beautiful town of Melrose.

To make a donation to the Poppyscotland Hearts and Heroes Challenge go to www.justgiving.com/heartsandheroes.

For more information on the event visit www.heartsandheroes.co.uk.