Penicuik amputee taking a walk in the garden for charity trio close to his heart

Despite having lost his leg 24 years ago to bone cancer, Richard Vallis hopes to walk around his garden 100 times in the next three weeks from Wednesday to complete six kilometres (four miles), to raise money for Lung Ha Theatre Company, Lothian Disability Sport and Friends of Chitambo.

Richard has supported Lothian Disability Sport for many years, earning him the wonderful experience of taking part in the Queen’s Baton Relay in 2014 before the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

While, Richard co-founded the Lung Ha Theatre Company for people with a learning disability in 1984.

And, Friends of Chitambo, which aims to support health measures in the hospital and surrounding Zambian district, was set-up by Richard’s wife Jo, who grew up in Zambia.

Richard said: “During lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic I thought I’d make use of my daily exercise to support Lung Ha, Lothian Disability Sport and Friends of Chitambo, three charities dear to my heart and do a sponsored walk within the garden.

“One hundred times round the garden would be about six kilometres, four miles.

“With my disability, an above hip amputation, this will be quite a challenge and will require roughly twice as much energy than what would be needed prior to my amputation – but I’d hope to achieve it in about three weeks.

“I very much hope people see fit to support me in this effort to raise funds for these amazing organisations!”

Updates from Richard’s challenge will be shared across social media channels from each charity using the hashtag #richards6kchallange:

Richard will be supported throughout by three charities challenge his wife Jo, his son Paul, who will be helping to document his journey, and by the very many friends Richard has made from each organisation his efforts are in aid of.

To donate go to https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/three-charities-walk.