The Paul Lynas Memorial Fundraising Group was formed in memory of their beloved friend Paul Lynas, who sadly passed away in September 2017 at the age of 37, and the group have been a beacon of hope and support for the West Lothian community in Scotland ever since.
Since forming in 2018, their fundraising efforts have not only united the community but have also made a significant impact on saving lives.
The group has independently funded the installation of five lifesaving defibrillators in key locations across West Lothian, including:
- Middleton Hall Bowling Club,
- Bathgate Bowling Club,
- Blackburn Bowling Club
- Eliburn in Livingston,
- Uphall Golf Club.
These defibrillators greatly enhance the chances of survival for individuals experiencing cardiac arrest. For every minute that someone is in cardiac arrest without receiving CPR or defibrillation, their chance of survival decreases by 10%. This means the closer a defibrillator is, the better the chances of survival are.
The group has also impressively raised £100,000 (and still counting!) for BHF by hosting several popular annual events, including indoor and outdoor bowls events and tournaments, golf days and online auctions - all of which are highly anticipated and well-supported by the community.
For the first time ever, the group was delighted to secure a sponsor for their 2024 golf day and online auction. This significant donation made a massive difference to their fundraising last year. The online auction was once again a huge success, with a flurry of activity before the deadline!
These events not only honour Paul’s memory but also foster a sense of togetherness and camaraderie amongst participants.
Ally Fleming, Paul’s brother-in-law and Group Lead says, “It was actually never about raising money, it was just about trying to get folk together to remember Paul.”
“At the end of every event, we always speak about how it would have been a day Paul would have loved and for us, that’s everything.”
They have also made significant contributions to BHF, supporting crucial research and initiatives aimed at improving survival rates for those who experience cardiac arrest. Ally says, “To be able to fundraise for BHF and support their lifesaving research and campaigns including the Nation of Lifesavers here in Scotland which now sees every secondary school pupil taught CPR before leaving school, means so much to the group and Paul’s family."
Angela McCormack, BHF Fundraising Manager East and South of Scotland, says, "I’m incredibly proud and humbled to work alongside the Paul Lynas Memorial BHF Fundraising Group. Their unwavering dedication to honouring Paul’s memory through their support of the British Heart Foundation is truly inspiring. From their professionalism and exceptional event organising skills to their tireless fundraising efforts, they’ve made a remarkable impact - raising £100,000 to help fund our lifesaving research. It’s a privilege to support them and witness the legacy they’re building in Paul’s name."
In recognition of their outstanding contributions, unwavering commitment, and the positive impact they have made in their community, the group were nominated for BHF Community Fundraising Volunteer of the Year award in our Volunteer of the Year awards 2025. Their work not only honours Paul’s legacy but also embodies the spirit of community, compassion and resilience.
Well done and thank you Paul Lynas Memorial Fundraising Group for your support and exceptional dedication to BHF and helping us raise lifesaving funds.
