Dundee United legend is captured for charity

Dundee United legend, Dave Bowman, has agreed to be held captive on the Tay by Action for Children Scotland - and he won't be released until he raises a special ransom to support vulnerable children, young people and families from across Dundee.

The former footballer - who played for clubs including Dundee United and Heart of Midlothian, and represented Scotland at the 1992 European Championships - is taking part in Action for Children Scotland's firstCaptured on the Tayevent. Brave locals, also including politicians and business leaders, will be held to ransom on the HMS Frigate Unicorn on Friday, 29 June 2012. Armed with only a mobile phone and a list of business contacts, colleagues and friends, the Very Important Prisoners will aim to raise £500 each in order to secure their release.

Bowman said: "All of the money raised at this fun event will go towards funding a crèche at Action for Children Scotland's Dundee Families service, which will help parents to attend the support groups without having to worry about finding childcare.

"I am pleased to be able to support the charity, which runs many valued services across Scotland. I am looking forward to being 'captured' - most importantly - being released!"

Shona Robison MSP; Joe Fitzpatrick MSP; Chris van der Kuyl, chief executive officer of Brightsolid; and Derek Souter, director Blackscroft Property Ltd are also taking part in the event. Places are still available for willing captives to take part in the event, and Action for Children Scotland is calling for Dundonians to show their support by being captured.

Fundraiser for Scotland East, Clare Pieroni, explained: "In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Navy often tricked young men into joining up by knocking them over the head and taking them to sea. The captives could only secure their release by paying a ransom.

"We want to Dundonians from all walks of life to be 'captured' - the more, the merrier. The ransom will help us continue to support the country's most vulnerable children, young people and families to transform their lives and fulfill their potential. In March we held aCaptured on the Clydeevent, which raised over £6,000 to help us raise vital funds to help children, young people and families. The pressure is now on for generous Dundonians to dig deep and help us beat the Glasgow total!"

All money raised will go towards funding a creche at the Action for Children Scotland's Dundee Families service, which will help parents to attend the support groups without having to worry about finding childcare.