Stephen Dunn, 53, an ex-Territorial Army soldier, will pull on a Bergen and military kit as he takes on the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run Half Marathon 2026 to raise funds for Erskine.

Stephen has set himself the daunting challenge of carrying a 40lb pack for the duration of the 13-mile course as he attempts to raise funds for Erskine Veterans Charity on Sunday 4th October 2026.

This is the third time that Stephen has taken on this epic challenge, which was inspired by his service in the early 90s. As part of one of the toughest selection processes in the Armed Forces, new recruits are required to run and march for 10 miles, carrying a 35lb pack, water, and their personal weapon, in under two hours.

In 2009 and 2011, Stephen completed the same race for Erskine, which cares for and supports nearly 1,400 veterans each year. In 2020, Stephen once again took on a mega challenge when he and his stepson completed the West Highland Way in one continuous loaded march.

Stephen, from Maryhill in Glasgow, is keen to repeat his success and raise awareness and funds for the charity, which cared for his Uncle John, an RAF veteran.

Stephen said: “I know all about the great work Erskine does for ex-service men and women, as my late uncle was cared for by Erskine. By visiting him, I could see the level of care and attention he and the other residents were receiving, and I knew this was a charity I had to do something for. In 2009 and 2011, I decided to take part in the Great Scottish Run but thought I needed to do something a bit quirky to raise awareness. I have decided to do the same thing again this year.”

Alison Sturgeon, Erskine Community Fundraiser, said: “Stephen has massively supported our Erskine veterans in the past by taking part in the Great Scottish Run twice, and in 2020 the West Highland Way fully kitted out. We are thrilled Stephen is once again taking part in the Great Scottish Run Half Marathon for us on the 4th of October. We have 36 runners taking part, and we wish them all the very best of luck!”

To support Stephen in his challenge, visit Stephen's Fundraising for Erskine Veterans.