Tom Gilzean, 96, vows to return to charity collecting depite breaking his neck

CHARITY collector Tom Gilzean, who ended up in hospital two months ago after breaking his neck, back and shoulder, has said he will 'live and die' for Edinburgh.

Tom Gilzean is recovering in hospital. Picture; Ian Georgeson

The 96 year-old Second World War veteran, who sits on the Royal Mile and Princes Street for hours at a time shaking a collection tin, is recovering well from his freak accident.

He broke several bones when he fell down the stairs outside his city flat in May while he was on his way to the bank, but believes he is now on the road to recovery.

Speaking from his room at Liberton hospital, he said: “I thought I’d maybe be dead by next week.

Tom Gilzean has raised more than £400,000 for good causes.

“I was semi conscious all the time, coming and going. I thought it was all over so I said to myself I’d better do something to get out of here.

“The first thing I thought of was who would collect the money for my charities?

“I love my charities and I love the people of Edinburgh, they are so generous.

“I live and die for Edinburgh.”

Tom Gilzean has raised more than £400,000 for good causes.

He added: “The doctors say I could be home by August and I’m hoping to be back in town by September collecting for my charities.”

Mr Gilzean, a well known face across the Capital, has raised almost £400,000 for good causes over the years.