In May 2019, we lost my brother suddenly and unexpectedly. His passing left a huge hole in our hearts — among family, friends, and especially in the communities he cherished. Two of those communities Dave had connections with were The Brain Tumour Research and Syston Scout Group / Syston Scout & Guide Band — both of which were central to his life and identity.

Since then, I’ve found strength through running and cycling, and this year I’ll be taking on the Leicester Half Marathon (13.1 miles) on Sunday 26th October 2025 in his memory.

I’ll be raising funds for two causes that were close to his heart:

Brain Tumour Research — to support the vital work to understand and treat this devastating disease.

Syston Scout Group — to help keep alive the spirit of community, adventure, and belonging that shaped Dave’s life.

Syston Scout Group, has been a pillar of youth development, community, and adventure in Syston, offering weekly meetings full of outdoor challenges, skills, teamwork, and fun.

Over the years, Syston Scout Group has become more than just a youth organisation — it is a community hub where young people make friends, bond relationships and stretch their confidence, learn leadership, and discover their potential.

In supporting the group, your donation goes directly into ensuring new generations of Beavers, Cubs, and Scouts get the same opportunities — outdoor adventures, mentoring, challenge, camaraderie, and a safe space to grow.

Every pound you donate will go directly to the charity you have chosen, either The Brain Tumour Research or Syston Scout Group (or you can choose which cause you prefer). Your support will help:

Fuel research into better treatments and eventual cures for brain tumours

Strengthen Syston Scouts’ ability to fund equipment, activity resources, training, and opportunities for young people

And keep alive a legacy that mattered deeply to Dave and to all of us who believe in community, growth, and compassion.

I am deeply grateful for any support you’re able to give. Whether large or small, each donation is meaningful — not just in memory of Dave, but in giving life to causes he believed in, and in helping kids in Syston find purpose, adventure, and belonging.

Thank you.

Russ