PRESS RELEASE

THE WEEKEND KITCHEN: A TASTE OF SCOTLAND

In support of Blesma, The Not Forgotten & The Veterans Club

For Immediate Release

The Weekend Kitchen: A Taste of Scotland is a deeply personal project created by Mark Strachan, a Michelin-trained chef turned soldier, who now dedicates his life to raising funds for military charities while managing his own mental-health challenges.

This book represents far more than food. It is a lifeline — a way of channelling trauma, discipline, creativity and purpose into something that gives back to those who have given so much. Mark’s journey from professional kitchens, to military service, and then to recovery and advocacy has shaped every recipe and every page.

Mark refuses to take a penny for himself.

100% of all proceeds are donated to three exceptional charities: Blesma, The Not Forgotten, and The Veterans Club.

In addition, Mark personally ensures that:

All contributions and donations go directly toward the printing and production of the book, so that every copy created generates even more support for the charities.

This means the project continually multiplies its impact — one print run funding the next, each run returning further support to veterans in need.

At the heart of this book lies an unwavering mission:

to help the forgotten, with nothing expected in return.

Mark’s fundraising helps him keep his own internal battles at bay, while lifting others who have been left behind by the system. His work with The Veterans Club — a remarkable independent organisation supporting the armed forces community — further strengthens his commitment to restoring dignity, belonging and hope.

The Weekend Kitchen: A Taste of Scotland blends seasonal Scottish cooking with a message of resilience and compassion. It is written for those who love good food, those who value community, and those who understand the cost of service.

In support of Blesma, The Not Forgotten, and The Veterans Club.