Milngavie Reservoir Hosts Festive Charity Santa Dash in Memory of Julie Mitchell

A 5km Santa Dash hosted at Milngavie Reservoir on Sunday, has raised over £27,000 in memory of Julie Mitchell, who sadly passed away in October this year following a tragic accident just outside Fintry. 

The event, organised by Julie’s twin sister Lesley Kinnaird, had over 86 walkers and runners in attendance, with all the fundraising efforts going towards the purchase of two, state of the art, search and rescue drones for Lomond Mountain Rescue. 

Lesley said: “I am blessed to have Milngavie Reservoir just 1km from my doorstep, it is a site which holds such deep significance for myself and Julie. 

“It was a cherished spot where we spent countless hours together, sharing our passion for fitness, health, and wellbeing through walks, runs, and training for events over the years.

“My sister Julie was such a kind-hearted and giving person who did so much for charity. Our annual  Fitness Garage Charity Santa Dash, at Milngavie Reservoir, which we first hosted in 2020, was one of our favourite events and always brought festive cheer to the community.”

“The generous funds raised will enable us to purchase new drones and provide essential training, which will strengthen our search and rescue capabilities. These drones will be crucial in improving our response times and safety during operations, ensuring we can act swiftly and effectively in challenging situations.”

David Dodson
Lomond Mountain Rescue Team Leader

Lesley, who owns a fitness studio in Milngavie, has a history of using the Santa Dash and other organised race events to support meaningful causes, previously raising funds for Funding Neuro and breast cancer charities. This year, she chose to dedicate the event to raising money for new drones and training for Lomond Mountain Rescue.

With hindsight, it is believed that had search and rescue drones with thermal imaging cameras been available on the night of Julie’s death perhaps the outcome could have been different.

David Dodson, Team Leader at Lomond Mountain Rescue said: “We are deeply grateful to Lesley and everyone who participated in this incredible event in memory of Julie. 

“The generous funds raised will enable us to purchase new drones and provide essential training, which will strengthen our search and rescue capabilities. These drones will be crucial in improving our response times and safety during operations, ensuring we can act swiftly and effectively in challenging situations. In time, our goal is to be able to share our expertise and drone capability with our neighbouring teams, Killin and Ochils MRTs if they request it. 

“This large donation is a powerful tribute to Julie’s memory and the community’s support for the vital work our teams carry out.”

At the event, Lomond Mountain Rescue ran a test flight of 'Julies Angel Wings', one of the drone’s they have been able to purchase thanks to Lesley’s fundraising. While Scottish Water and East Dunbartonshire Partnership Rangers as well as local radio personality Gina McKie were also in attendance to introduce and support the Santa Dash. 

Fundraisers, all wearing pink Santa hats, began at Milngavie Reservoirs hub before following the trail around the water. The dash was completed with runners crossing the iconic bridge before heading into the town centre where participants were treated to a celebratory hot chocolate. 

For more information and to support Lesley’s efforts, donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/page/lesley-kinnaird-1731142038716.