The Edinburgh Men’s 10k run was held this past weekend, and although thousands of participants ran to raise money for 6 different charities, a local Bruntsfield shop stood out.
Mark Thorne, of Thorne Records, began campaigning from his record shop for MS Society Scotland on the 25th of August, sharing his intention to run the Edinburgh 10k through the Thorne Records Official Instagram. Although, you may argue that he has campaigned since the opening of his store in 2022. As part of the store’s manifesto, they donate a percentage of each sale to MS Society Scotland, and have raised £2,679.59 from its sales as of Thorne’s announcement.
Inspired by his older brother, Matthew, who was diagnosed in 2019 with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis, the decision to dedicate a portion of his business seemed like a direct fit, deeming MS Society Scotland as the ‘Official’ Thorne Records charity:
“It was really-really important for me to give something back to the community in lots of different ways, and one of the ways in which I could do that is by supporting a charity.”
Thorne attributed the success of his run, finishing at 59 minutes and 09 seconds, to his brother. Explaining that although he himself was not a traditionally active person, he felt inspired by the birth of his brother’s first child at 47. With friend ‘Fletch’ further encouraging him to book something after previously bookshelf-ing the idea to take care of his business, setting the run in stone.
When asked whether he would recommend an event such as the 10K to families and friends who want to advocate for those who can’t, he heartedly shared:
“Matthew used to do 10ks, and 5ks, and half-marathons, and he used to be really into climbing hills. Like I say, I never played sport or did anything like that growing up, but he did. So, I think for me, it’s that he can’t do this anymore, and he would if he could. So, for me it was quite an emotional thing for me to do and it made sense. If you’re going to do it, you need to give it your heart and soul.”
The brothers have previously explored other fundraising options, such as their climb of Ben Nevis in 2020, which amassed a further £14,197 in donations.
Separate from these events, Thorne emphasises the importance of connection between those supporting someone who may be dealing with a difficulty, by simply sitting and talking.
Continuing the campaign, Thorne Records also raffled off a pair of Ray-Bans donated by 20/20 Opticians, for £5 a ticket. Accumulatively, the record shop, and Thorne, garnered £4,414 for the charity including the raffle and JustGiving campaign. While weekly runs are still in rotation for Thorne, another big event may be in the cards – but not anytime soon.
Those who wish to continue the support can find the JustGiving link on Thorne Records official Instagram page, or you can click hereto keep the support going.
