The Highland Cross is now becoming a regular event for team members of Community Energy Scotland. The 50-mile duathlon, in its 27th year, consists of a 20 mile walk or run, followed by a 30 mile bike ride crossing the Highlands coast to coast, from Kintail in the west through Glen Affric to Beauly.  Community Energy Scotland did not have their own team this year but being the keen fundraisers, Eric Dodd and Melanie Macrae were selected for other teams. After the event Mel said "After some serious speed walking, pleny of blisters, big hills, wet boggy bits and rivers to cross, a few midges, cramp, falling off bikes, getting legs stretched out by random strangers, kind ladies at Struy feeding us Mars bars ....we managed to do it!  Thanks for all those who sponsored us, its fantastic to get the support" 

Weather conditions were excellent and so no excuses were allowed for the wind not being in the right direction. Melanie walked/ran to get over the line in 6 hrs 40min. Eric ran/walked and managed the route in 5hrs 53min. Eric managed to raise over £210 from the sale of homemade scones which he brings to the office every week.  Both Eric Dodd and Melanie Macrae have both previously competed in the Highland Cross raising funds for the nominated charities, which this year are Highland Disability Sport, Merkinch Community Centre, Multiple Sclerosis Society and Skye and Lochalsh Mental Health Association.   More photos will shortly be avialable online at www.highlandcross.co.uk.

The Moonwalk, Edinburgh

Karen Paterson, Community Energy Scotland's assistant development officer in Argyll took part in the Moonwalk on 20th June at Inverlieth Park in Edinburgh.  The Moonwalk is an event where people walk a marathon through the night in their bras, mainly women taking part, although men are also welcome!   The Moonwalk uses the funds raised to support Breast Cancer Causes and 10,000 people took part in this year's walk which began at midnight. 

Our photo shows Karen (left), and Julie Fairbrass from GRAB (Group for Recycling in Argyll and Bute) who were part of the Energie Oban team.