The National Trust for Scotland has launched a new initiative to help raise money to protect Scotland’s most treasured places, after it suffered huge losses during lockdown.
Stride out for Scotland is the charity’s latest fundraiser, encouraging people to get outside and enjoy walking in some of Scotland’s most beautiful and breath-taking scenery, while fundraising for its SOS appeal.
From the beginning of lockdown on the 24 March paying visits to National Trust for Scotland locations were reduced to zero with visitors limited to only free to enter natural heritage properties.
The charity’s main opening Easter season was completely missed. All of this, along with a 5% drop off in memberships has left the Trust in crisis with a £28 million loss in essential income.
The SOS fundraising appeal hopes to raise a minimum of £2.5 million as part of its recovery plan to ensure the continued protection of the properties and cultural heritage in its care.
To date the appeal has raised £2million, and the Trust is enormously grateful to those who so far have to come its aid at this time of crisis.
The campaign encourages people to enjoy walks and trails across the country, and is tailormade for people of all ages and abilities.
Walks in places cared for by the Trust take in spectacular scenery, traverse Munros and sea clifftops, woodlands and breath-taking waterfalls as well as gentle paths and gardens.
Ali MacLeod, head of fundraising at the National Trust for Scotland said: “We wanted to inspire our supporters to explore and reconnect with the places they love and we protect and, if they are able to, fundraise to help ensure their on-going care and conservation.
“With our countryside places, gardens and estates now open to the public we’re asking everyone who enjoys walking in our many locations to join in. After such a difficult few months, many of us are craving the restorative effects of fresh air and greenery and the Trust has plenty of that to go round
“Stride Out For Scotland will not only inspire people to enjoy the stunning places on their doorsteps but will also help raise funds for our emergency appeal. Whether you’re a novice hill walker, an experienced hiker or just looking for a fun family adventures, there’s a walk to suit everyone.”
As well as routes, the National Trust for Scotland has published a downloadable walking pack here and people can share their pics on social media, using the hashtag #NTSSOS
For more information on Stride Out for Scotland, click here.
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