Back to Newsroom

The Kiltwalk: Spotlight on Calum’s Cabin

The Kiltwalk helps many childrens' charities in Scotland, including Calum's Cabin

Calum's cabin

Calum's cabin

As part of our Kiltwalk sponsorship, we are taking a look at some of the charities that the funds raised from the walks will support. Today we’ve been in touch with Calum’s Cabin.

When 12-year-old Rothesay boy Calum Speirs was diagnosed with a brain tumour, he and his family packed as much as they could into his final 13 months by taking trips to places they never imagined they would visit, meeting celebrities and spending quality time together.

Following his passing, the family fundraised, hoping to purchase a caravan to start off a charity venture that would allow them to provide respite to families with children suffering from cancer.

Upon visiting the caravan site on the isle of Bute they spotted some cabins in the adjoining field. At a cost of £90,000 and with only £3500 raised so far, they knew they had a long way to go before purchasing one. In 2007, they had managed to get the funds together but were advised it would be better to purchase land and build on it. Lord Bute generously leased them a piece of land for £1 per annum and the family started working with an architect to devise plans for Calum’s Cabin.

Two years later they welcomed their first guests into the bespoke Calum’s Cabin. The scheme proved to be a huge success and in 2011, due to the high demand, the family purchased a cottage, also on the isle of Bute to accommodate more guests.

Since it began in 2009, Calum’s Cabin has helped around 650 families make special memories and take some time to recharge their batteries. They have the opportunity to relax in the cabin, sail on the Waverley, visit Rothesay castle and ride the open top bus. If they fancy something a bit more active, they can fish, golf, go horse riding and ride bikes.

Calum’s mum Caroline said. ‘We’re honoured to be a charity partner with The Kiltwalk again this year. Last year we had 407 walkers and this year we are aiming for 500. Signing up and taking part in this brilliant event will enable us to purchase extra accommodation so that we can help even more families.’

 

Peter and Roughie tell you why you should sign up to this year's Kiltwalk.

About the Author

Natalie Little

Staff writer at Arnold Clark

Comments