In 1993 I was admitted to Stirling hospital with a crushed ankle and broken leg after falling badly on Bein Tullaichean.

I made a good recovery but after a few years I developed osteo-arthritis in my ankle and had ankle replacement surgery, after another few years and further foot surgery on arthritic joints, including a triple fusion, I had another ankle replacement in November 2021.

During this period Covid was having its effect with long waits for surgery for most patients. I was immobile for over three years, using a wheelchair and an electric buggy to get around.

Recovery has been slow and painful and while I will always have some discomfort and stiffness in my foot I feel ready to take up this triathlon challenge for Christian Aid, hopefully, raising funds for those in need.

I intend to base my challenge near to home. The first day of my challenge (13th May) will see me cycling from Eddleston to Walkerburn and back to Peebles (approx 26 miles). The second challenge will be to swim 50 lengths of Peebles Hydro pool (Wednesday 15th May) and the third challenge will be a four hour (8 miles) walk around St Mary’s loch on Friday 17th May.