Tom Gilzean Edinburgh’s legendary fundraising war veteran clocks 99 today
Written by Sunny Unachi on 13th May 2019
If you see Tom Gilzean out and about in Edinburgh make sure you say happy birthday because he turns 99 today.
The dedicated charity fundraiser and war veteran is a familiar face on Princes Street, where he has worked tirelessly for over 20 years to raise money for the Sick Kids hospital – whatever the weather.
Recognisable for many by his signature tartan trousers and war medals, this Edinburgh hero has now raised an incredible £1 million for charity.
Last year alone, he donated £30,000 to the Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, which funded the Surgical Day Case waiting area and a discharge lounge for children and their families.
He was also the first person to receive the coveted Edinburgh Award for charity work and philanthropy in 2015, which recognised his outstanding contribution.
