Iain's Fundraiser for PoppyScotland

The Great War of 1914-1918 is well known for how horrific the experience was for those who served. Hundreds of thousands of troops were killed, with many more suffering life-changing injury and mental trauma.

After the war, many of those who served their country were left destitute on their return home. Those returning to civilian life had to cope with the prospect of unemployment, financial ruin and homelessness, as well as coping with the psychological trauma suffered as a result of the horrific scenes they had witnessed on the front line.

The Commander of the British Forces in World War I, Field Marshal Earl Haig, was horrified by the plight faced by so many men who had been under his command, and he dedicated his later life to the welfare of ex-Servicemen. In 1921, The Earl Haig Fund was established to care for those who had suffered as a result of service during the First World War.

And they've been helping the Armed Forces community and their families ever since. They have helped countless veterans and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces or with struggles adjusting from military to civilian life. They even help with needs that have arisen long after someone has left the Armed Forces. Whenever, wherever support is needed, they are there.

2021 marks 100 years since the first Poppy Appeal. To mark this, I am committing to walk and cycle 142 miles over November, the distance between the National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle and the Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge. It is my absolute belief that we owe our veterans more than we can ever repay, and Poppy Scotland will gratefully receive any donation you can give.

Behind them. Always.