The Beatles Marathon returns in November, supporting MND research with a musical tribute

17 October 2024

My Name’5 Doddie Foundation is being supported once again by The Beatles Marathon in Portobello this November.

The Beatles Marathon UK showcases the musical talents of Edinburgh-based bands as they perform The Beatles’ entire catalogue, raising funds for vital motor neuron disease research.

Last year, brothers Stuart and Scott McGachan established The Beatles Marathon UK to raise funds for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. Growing up in Edinburgh alongside their older sister Clare, the McGachan household was always full of music from the likes of Gerry Rafferty, Simon & Garfunkel, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Dylan and, of course, The Beatles. 

In 2021 their father Pat McGachan was diagnosed with motor neuron disease, and over the following two years, Pat’s health rapidly deteriorated. 

Inspired by Sgt. Peppercorn’s Marathon - a Beatles Marathon in Stuart’s current hometown of Columbus, Ohio - the McGachan family organised the UK’s first Beatles Marathon for November last year, holding onto the hope that Pat would be able to attend. Sadly, Pat passed away just weeks before the event.

The Beatles Marathon now stands as a tribute to Pat and all those living with MND.

The Beatles Marathon 2.0 is taking place on Saturday 30 November at Portobello Town Hall from 11.30am - 11.00pm. Guests will receive a wristband on arrival and are free to come and go as they please throughout the day. 

For tickets and further details about the event, please click here. 

If anyone is interested in volunteering and lending a hand on the day, please get in touch with our Community & Volunteer Fundraiser Mia: mia@myname5doddie.co.uk. The volunteer roles on the day will include selling raffle tickets and welcoming / checking in guests.