John gets his 5 a day

John Anderson (49) is on day 38 of his marathon task and has already collected around £1500 and people are now joining him on his runs.

The electrician is raising the money for Queensferry Churches Care In The Community (QCCC), which provides support services to older people and carers in South Queensferry, Ratho, Ratho Station, Dalmeny, Newbridge and Kirkliston.

He is running various routes around the area, including one which takes him over the Forth Road Bridge.

John, who plays the pipes for the US Los Angeles Pipe Band, said: “I’m doing it for a few reasons. Firstly, I want to get fit and I said I was doing if for charity then I couldn’t back out if things got tough.

“Secondly, I wanted to do something for the community and I had never heard of QCCC until I played bagpipes at one of their events so I wanted to raise awareness of the brilliant work they do. I am also a member of Lodge St Margaret 548 who are keen to support local good causes so it all fitted in perfectly really.”

A group run has been organised for anyone wishing to get involved on Sunday, May 15 from the Queensferry Sports Hub at 3pm.

QCCC fundraising co-ordinator Dolina Gorman said: “The money John is raising will go a huge way towards us meeting our fundraising target in 2016. We are extremely grateful for his efforts.”