Glasgow dads take on running challenge to improve city’s ‘most depressing playground’

Glasgow Dads Tackle Running Challenge to Revamp Playground

Two dads from Battlefield are running 500km to raise funds for a new playground at their children’s school

Local

Glasgow, Scotland, Battlefield Primary School, Playground, Fundraising

Glasgow: Two dads from Battlefield are on a mission. They want to improve their kids’ school playground, which they call “depressing.” So, they’ve decided to run 500km this January.

Nick Westlake, 48, and Darren McGuire, 38, are leading the charge. Their goal? To raise £5,000 for new play equipment at Battlefield Primary School. The total cost for the upgrades is around £30,000.

They’re already halfway through their challenge and have raised over £1,800 so far. Nick, whose daughter goes to the school, thinks the playground is the saddest in the city. It’s just a big tarmac area with no fun stuff for the kids.

He believes the children deserve a place where they can really enjoy themselves. Along with other parents and local businesses, Nick and Darren are part of a fundraising group to keep the momentum going throughout 2025.

Darren, who has a son at the school, is optimistic. He knows raising £30,000 is a big task, but he’s eager to connect with anyone who can help turn that dull tarmac into something special.

Studies show that good outdoor play areas can really help kids with their attendance and behavior in school. The funds they raise will go towards buying and maintaining new play equipment, with work done by a council-approved contractor.

One supporter, Stuart Dickson, 54, shared his thoughts. He attended Battlefield Primary from 1974 to 1978 and noted that the playground hasn’t changed in nearly 50 years. He wishes the dads luck and hopes to see a transformation soon.

For more details on their fundraising efforts, check out their JustGiving page. It’s a great cause, and every little bit helps!

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/glasgow-dads-take-running-challenge-30799554