One of the founders of the Strathcarron Hospice 10k is set to pull on his trainers and take part in the run once more later this year - 40 years after he set it up.

Gordon Davidson worked at Airth Castle Hotel in the leisure club in 1986 when Donald Slicer, a leisure club member and well-known local golf professional at Falkirk Tryst GC, approached him with an idea to hold a 6.2 miles ‘fun run’ fundraiser for Strathcarron. Alongside fellow leisure club member Gordon Robinson, they approached the Hospice with the idea and a plan was soon put in place.

On 5 October 1986 the inaugural event was held with more than 280 runners setting off from Denny High School, raising over £5339 for the hospice.

Gordon said: “It’s amazing to look back and see how successful it has become over the decades from what was a small idea. The hospice was desperate for money and we wanted to help.

We had less technical advances back then - Donald was driving around Denny in his white Volkswagen Golf convertible trying to measure out the route!

The first event was a brilliant day. Members of the community really got involved and we had top local athletics club athletes taking part. We raised an incredible amount of money.

“It was so successful we held it again the following year, with over 500 runners taking part raising over £5500.

We also had support setting up those first events from Billy Buchanan - a local councillor at that time. I lost contact with Gordon and Donald and would love to get in touch with them again and perhaps meet up at the 10K.”

Gordon will take part in the Strathcaron Hospice on 18 October alongside daughter Katherine and his step son’s partner Leah.

He added: “It will be a great experience to take part in the event after all these years, especially with friends and family alongside me. Everyone locally knows someone who has needed the support of the Hospice, so it will be nice to give something back and be part of something again we started all those decades ago.”

Kerry Deegan, Events and Fundraising Assistant for Strathcarron Hospice, said: “It’s been wonderful to hear Gordon’s reflections about those first 10K events and see how the event has grown over the years. It is poignant that he is returning 40 years later in our 45th anniversary year to take part with his own family members.

“Whether you're running for yourself or running in memory of a loved one, join us to run for Strathcarron Hospice.

Every penny you raise will make a real difference to those living with life limiting illnesses. Register today and do something amazing on 18 October for your local hospice. With your help, we can continue to care for all those who need us now, and in the future.” 

Setting off from Denny High School, the race takes you around Denny and Bonnybridge covering a 10K route not far from the hospice itself. Open to all runners age 15+. It’s suitable for those tackling their first 10K, to the more serious athletes looking for a personal best. Whether you're running for yourself or running in memory of a loved one, join us to run for Strathcarron Hospice.

 You can register for the Strathcarron Hospice  10k online here Strathcarron Hospice 10K 2026 | Strathcarron Hospice

Use code HOSPICE for £5 off entry fee for our in-person event only* - valid until 29 August 2026.

If you would like to take part but don't live locally, you can register for our virtual option which means you can create your own 10K route on Sunday 18 October to run in support of Strathcarron Hospice wherever you may be.

*Discount code is valid until 29th August 2026

With thanks to our supporters who ensure this event is possible; Lightways Contractors Ltd, LifeFit Wellness and Class One Traffic Management and Western Toyota (Stirling).