We’re set for 10k memorial

MORE than 70 pupils and staff members at a city high school are set to take part in next week’s 10k run to raise money in memory of their deputy headteacher, who died during the summer holidays.

Beth McDonald, who was deputy head of Craigmount High, lost her short battle with cancer on July 24.

The school has organised a series of events to remember the “vivacious” woman, including taking part in the Bupa Great Edinburgh Run on October 2, and raising money for Cancer Research UK.

Other events include two “dress down” days, a service and assembly in school, and the Amsterdam 8k, half marathon or marathon – which 25 staff members have signed up to.

Mrs McDonald had been working as deputy headteacher at Craigmount for 17 years and was expected to retire this year.She was a keen traveller and golfer and had two sons, Jamie and Robbie, and was married to Malcolm.

Craigmount headteacher Dr John Campbell said: “She was a lively and vivacious sort of person. She was very thorough and methodical. Her death was a great shock. We are putting on various fundraising events, which have had massive support.” PE teacher Steven Raeburn, who arranged for staff and pupils to take part in the Bupa run, said: “It’s really about bringing staff and pupils together. It’s also a challenge and Beth enjoyed a challenge.”

The Amsterdam running events will raise money for both Cancer Research UK and the Sick Kids Hospital, which was chosen as the daughter of one of the teachers, Calum Thomas, has received a lot of treatment there.

Mr Thomas said: “In November 2010 my daughter Megan, aged 13 months, was diagnosed with an extremely rare condition. Thanks to the fantastic care and expertise on offer at the Sick Kids in Edinburgh, Megan continues to make excellent progress.”

More than 10,000 runners will take part in this year’s Bupa Great Edinburgh Run events. This year sees the biggest ever programme, with the addition of a new 5k course alongside the existing 10k run.

Entrepreneur Michelle Mone will be running the 5k race, while Charlie Reid from The Proclaimers will be running in the 10k event to raise money for cancer charity AICR.

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