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The Beech Tree and BackImage: therunbible.com

'Beech Tree & Back' to help feed iconic WHW inn's popular menagerie over winter

Furry, feathered and finned friends of the West Highland Way -- and their humans -- need our help

A new virtual event has just been launched to help feed the animals of the Beech Tree Inn.

The iconic family owned pub near the start of the West Highland Way is much valued by runners and walkers alike as a regular ‘pit stop’ along the long-distance path.

The Run Bible's Alex Osborne, organiser of 'The Beech Tree & Back' told runABC Scotland online: “The WHW literally passes through the grounds of the pub. Although the race doesn’t actually stop there, the Beech Tree are ardent supporters of the event.” 

At least £5 from each £12 (£10 SA/EA) entry to 'The Beech Tree & Back’ will go to feed the pub’s collection of animals, including pygmy goats, ducks, rabbits, sheep, chinchillas, Shetland ponies, tortoises, fish and birds.

The call for runners and walkers support the Beech Tree Inn comes as hospitality restrictions continue to bite. With winter soon to rear its head, continuing to prioritise the welfare of those animals – which former WHW race winner and UK and Scotland athlete James Stewart call an ‘institution’ – will be no easy task. 

Stewart’s own son Caelan will be taking part in the event to represent the family. 

To complete the virtual challenge, runners, walkers or cyclists can choose their own start and end points, and ‘head to the Beech Tree and Back’. The distance can be covered any time between now and 18 December. 

Participants will also receive a buff after they submit their proof.    

Ian Beattie MBE, chair of scottishathletics and RD of the West Highland Way Race told runABC Scotland online: “In this challenging year it’s good to see another new event which recognises the current constraints on everyone, while giving people of all abilities the chance to take part.” 

“I’m also delighted to see that the event will support the work of the Beech Tree Inn." 

"Lynne and her team have been big supporters of the West Highland Way Race for many years and it’s so nice to see the running community return the favour.” 

 

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