Ian Rankin to run Rebus literary tour for cancer fundraiser

Crime writer Ian Rankin is offering night-time charity walkers the chance to win an exclusive Rebus tour of Edinburgh conducted by himself.

World-renowned crime writer Ian Rankin. Picture: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

Rankin’s offer is aimed at boosting numbers taking part in the second Maggie’s Culture Crawl Edinburgh on 23 September and the inaugural Maggie’s Culture Crawl Glasgow taking place on 7 October, as well as nine other events across the UK.

Everyone registered for one of the 11 Maggie’s Culture Crawls by 30 June will be entered into a draw to win one of six places on Rankin’s tour.

Rankin, who recently visited the original Maggie’s Centre, which helps people with cancer and their families, in the grounds of the Western General in Edinburgh, said: “Visiting Maggie’s Edinburgh was nothing short of inspiring. The charity’s progressive attitude to cancer care left me feeling incredibly hopeful, while also astounded that they rely almost entirely on voluntary donations.

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“I would encourage everyone to sign up for one of the Culture Crawls. Not only will you be raising vital funds for a charity that helps so many, you will also be signing up for a unique, exciting and fun night in Inspector Rebus’s home city.”

The Edinburgh event includes venues such as Fettes College and the Edinburgh College of Art, while the Glasgow night walk will take in the BBC Scotland head office and the Gallery of Modern Art.

Anne Macdonald, 58, who is taking part in the Edinburgh walk, was diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago. “Maggie’s has been a lifeline for me,” she said.

“It is great to have Ian Rankin supporting and encouraging people to get involved for Maggie’s.”

Laura Lee, Maggie’s chief executive, said the Maggie’s Culture Crawls captured the essence of Maggie’s in a way which gives people a truly different experience of each city as well as raising vital funds.

Bill Drummond, managing partner of Brodies LLP, which is sponsoring the ten-mile city walks, said: “It’s great to have Ian Rankin on board this year, following Alexander McCall Smith’s huge contribution to the first Scottish Culture Crawl.

“Having taken part in the Edinburgh Culture Crawl last year alongside colleagues from Brodies, I know first-hand just how enjoyable the walk is.”

Maggie’s celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and will open its 20th centre at the Forth Valley Royal Hospital near Falkirk later in 2016.

• More information/register here: https://www.maggiescentres.org/culturecrawl/