Conservation body the John Muir Trust (JMT) has set up a memorial fund to help those undertaking a venture which involves travel to wild places, is adventurous, of educational or scientific significance – and be a life-changing experience leading to a commitment to practical action to conserve wild places.

That’s no small task, but if you think you’re up for it, it may be worth applying for a Go – And Do It! grant of between £500 and £2,000 which is being offered in memory of trust member Bill Wallace who died in February this year.

The JMT website says the grant will be available to people of all ages and abilities with a Scottish interest. It is aimed at people of all races and ethnic backgrounds, people who like Bill can show stoicism, determination and commitment and finally those who can convince the grant panel that they shall Go – And Do It.

Closing date for applications is 15 January 2007 and application forms are available on the trust website. £1,500-worth of donations at Bill’s funeral were the foundation for the fund and have been supplemented by a matched amount by the JMT, Maude Tiso of the outdoor retailing firm bearing her name and former JMT chairman Andrew Thin.

Dick Allen JMT Trustee and Chair of Go – and Do It! said: "Bill was a very special man, with very special qualities.

“He represented all that was best in Scottish mountaineering and in having and sharing an enlightened approach to safeguarding the mountains and wild places of the world. We believe this memorial is a fitting tribute to the man, and will help to ensure that his ethos is carried forward in succeeding generations."
Anyone interested in contributing to the fund should contact the trust via its website.