City firm’s charity walk in memory of former colleague

Edinburgh-based St Andrews Timber & Building Supplies is organising a sponsored walk in memory of former colleague Stevie Russell, who passed away suddenly at the end of last year.

The father-of-two, pictured, was a pillar of the community in Polbeth and had been working tirelessly to raise money for the construction of the first 3G football pitch in the West Lothian town.

Long-time president and coach at Polbeth Community FC, his dream had been to provide a facility which would keep youngsters off the streets and get them involved in sporting activities.

St Andrews, which has its West Lothian headquarters in nearby Livingston, wants to continue Stevie’s work by turning his untimely passing into a drive for positive change and continue to build awareness for the various challenges faced by the youth of Polbeth.

Taking place on Saturday, 13 July, the sponsored walk begins at St Andrews’ Stenhouse branch in Edinburgh at 10am, and will finish at Polbeth United Community FC.

Ronnie Robinson, managing director of St Andrews Timber & Building Supplies, said: “Stevie was a huge part of St Andrews, worked as our Area Sales Manager for seven years and was much loved by all his customers and staff alike. His passing has left a massive hole not only in the company but in the Polbeth community.

“Nobody has been able to take over the huge role Stevie played in organising, funding and raising awareness of the challenges the youth of Polbeth is facing. He firmly believed sports and activities was the way to promote a bright future within the youth community and we are determined to do what we can to keep his light shining bright.

“Next month’s walk will be an emotional occasion but one which we fervently hope will help us take a big step towards fulfilling Stevie’s dream.”

Polbeth Community Hub SCIO was founded in 2018, previously run by West Lothian Council.  The team at the hub provides a food bank during the day for young parents, elderly and unemployed, however the youth groups only run on a Thursday afternoon and alternative Fridays.

Anyone wishing to donate, can do so here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/polbeth-united-1717490256310?newPage=true

Stevie is survived by his loving wife Lorraine, his two sons Stuart and Lewis and granddaughters Harper and Lydia.