Oor Tom

Remembering Tom Gilzean 1920-2019

Tom Gilzean was an exceptional and inspirational ambassador of Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity who dedicated his life to raising funds for worthy causes.

Come rain or shine, Tom could be found on the Royal Mile, wearing his trademark tartan trews with his ECHC collection can.

A decorated war veteran, he sadly died in November 2019 aged 99, having raised over £1 million during his lifetime. 

Oor Tom was created by Chris Rutterford to honour Tom and the thousands of children and their families who have been cared for by the children’s hospital. Central Taxis bought Oor Tom to raise further funds for children in hospital and donated it to the city for everyone to enjoy today.

ECHC is immensely proud and privileged to have been one of Tom’s chosen charities. Thanks to Tom, the lives of thousands children and their families in hospital were transformed – an incredible legacy for a man who was truly one of a kind.

Thank you Tom, from all your friends at ECHC and Central Taxis.