Sun shines on Wastside Smiles fundraiser as almost 200 folk take part
THE ANNUAL Wastside Smiles event took place on Sunday, with more than 190 people taking part in the much-loved family fun day.
The weather gods were certainly looking down on da Wastside, with sunshine gracing the event from start to finish.
Folk of all ages gathered to walk, run, and roll through the Wastside, choosing from one, three or seven-mile routes through Skeld, Wester Skeld, and Reawick.
This year marked the 12th year of Wastside Smiles, and the impressive turnout was a testament to its continued popularity. Locals, visitors enjoying holidays in Shetland, and those incorporating the event into their training schedules all came together to support a variety of worthwhile causes.
Helping to get everyone underway was seven-month-old Jack Couper, the youngest member of Skeld Hall. Ably assisted by mum Kristen, Jack was dressed for the occasion and had the honour of starting this year’s event.
Funds raised through this year’s Wastside Smiles will be divided equally between a number of fundraising efforts by Wastside folk, helping to support charities and causes that are close to their hearts.
Eleven-year-old Joe Fraser and eight-year-old Kari Fraser from Skeld completed a sponsored walk to raise money for Michaelswood in Aith and Da Sand Gairdins.
Twelve-year-old Sophie Eunson from Skeld also undertook a sponsored walk, raising funds to provide cancer care packs for people undergoing cancer treatment in Shetland.
Shona Drummond, Ian Anderson, Billy Anderson, Iona Wilson, Jamie Wilson, and Marianne Clark are preparing to climb Ben Nevis to raise money for Shetland Bereavement Support Service and the Scottish Ambulance Service first responders, in memory of Amy Arthur.
Andrea Racekova and Dom Bogle recently completed the Simmer Dim Half Marathon, raising funds for Mind Your Head in memory of Erin Quinn.
Among the standout participants returning to Da Wastside Smiles this year were Lou Jackson and Laurence Hunter, who completed the route in their wheelchairs as part of their training for the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run in Glasgow this October. They are fundraising for Ability Shetland.
A group of new runners also travelled from Whalsay to take part. Da Whalsay Couch to 5K, a nine-week programme established by Anya Risk, brought along 13 members ranging in age from under 16 to over 60. For many, it was their first time completing a 5K distance.
The group thoroughly enjoyed the event, particularly the tea and cakes afterwards, before rounding off their trip out west with a swim at Reawick beach.
While some found the course challenging, the spectacular scenery and strong community spirit more than made up for it. It was a true family day out, with dogs, prams, and plenty of friendly conversation along the way.
Back at the finish line, participants received Wastside Smiles water bottles, along with bananas, sweets, medals, and certificates.
Afterwards in the Skeld Hall smiling faces enjoyed a spread at the traditional Sunday teas. Sideshows and games kept the bairns entertained throughout the afternoon.
Da Wastside Smiles organisers gave a huge thank you to everyone who took part, donated, baked, helped prepare the hall, or supported the event in any way.
The fundraising total is still being calculated and will be announced in due course.
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