Erskine’s superstar rower, John Baillie, has begun yet another incredible challenge to raise funds for the charity so close to his heart, Erskine Veterans Charity, Scotland’s foremost provider of care for Veterans.
From Land’s End to John o’ Groats, John’s rowing will be daunting to say the least, however there’s no need for him to worry about the volatile Highland weather or turning tides, as he’ll be clocking up the miles on his trusty rowing machine!
John and his rowing machine will be travelling to various supermarkets in and around Inverness not only eating up the miles to reach his target of 874 miles, but raising awareness of Erskine and the sterling work it does for Veterans throughout Scotland.
From Inverness, John, 82, is a former Staff Sergeant 2/51 Highlands Volunteer, who served in the Adjutant General’s Corps, including three tours of Bosnia during the 1990’s. After returning to Civvy Street, John worked in security and delivery for Tesco. Very cleverly, John has combined his vast experience as a Veteran, shop worker, and fundraiser to raise money and awareness for Erskine by booking his slot where there is the most footfall in each store to ensure he is able to chat and meet people whilst rowing.
So far through the years, John has raised tens of thousands of pounds for Erskine Veterans. His last challenge in 2022, rowing the Atlantic from Labrador to Ardnamurchan alone raised £15k. This was the highest ever raised by a solo challenge event supporter at Erskine, taking his total to just shy of £30k.
John said: “I am very proud to be taking on another exciting challenge for Erskine Veterans Charity in 2024. Rowing from Land’s End to John o’Groats will commemorate those who sacrificed so much at D-Day, giving their day for our tomorrow. Rowing the length of the UK will respect and honour Veterans from across the country. The challenge is even more gruelling for me, as I had my kidney removed for cancer earlier this year. I do love a challenge though, and hopefully our kind supporters recognise this.”
Erskine’s Fundraising Manager – North, Michael Parkes said: ” We are delighted and very grateful of John taking on yet another challenging row for the Erskine’s Veterans. He doesn’t only raise funds for the charity but awareness. This is amazing as we will be opening our second Erskine Veterans Activity Centre in Forres later in the year and he is certainly spreading the word about it”.
Michael continued: “We’re excited to share the upcoming dates for John’s Inverness rows. If you are in the area, please do pop in to say hello to John and show your support!
6th – 8th September: Tesco Elgin
27th – 29th September: Tesco Dingwall
If you would like to support John, please visit his JustGiving page at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/john-baillie-1718800703928