Penicuik man who lost leg to bone cancer aims to walk 100 laps of his garden for charity after being inspired by Captain Tom Moore

Richard Vallis, who had an above hip amputation 24 years ago, is known for founding and supporting a range of organisations and charities and does not want to let Covid-19 put a stop to his work.

The 66-year-old will begin his four mile (6km) garden trek challenge next Wednesday, May 20th and hopes to reach the finish line within three weeks.

Funds raised will be split equally between three charities - Lothian Disability Sport, Lung Ha Theatre Company and Friends of Chitambo.

Richard said he took inspiration from Captain Tom Moore, who captured the hearts of the nation last month when he successfully walked 100 lengths of his garden to raise money for NHS Charities Together, in time for his 100th birthday. The war veteran, who wanted to thank the staff who treated him for cancer and a broken hip, raised nearly £33 million for the cause.

Richard, who ran a tree surgery business before his cancer diagnosis, said: "With my disability, 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 3 weeks.

"I very much hope people see fit to support me in this effort to raise funds for these amazing organisations."

Lothian Disability Sport (LDS) promotes sport and physical recreation for people with a disability and is a charity which Richard has supported for many years, earning him the chance to take part in the Queen's Baton Relay in 2014 before the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

After his amputation 24 years ago and learning to walk again, Richard completed an archery coaching course and later started an archery group with LDS supported by volunteers.

Lung Ha Theatre Company is the leading theatre company in Scotland for people with a learning disability which Richard co-founded, with help from Pete Clerk and others, in 1984.

Friends of Chitambo, which aims to support health measures in the hospital and surrounding Zambian district of Chitambo, is a charity that was set up by his wife, Jo, who grew up in Zambia.

Richard will be supported throughout his challenge by his wife and son, Paul, who will be helping to document the journey, as well as friends he has made from the organisations he is fundraising for - and social distancing will be maintained.

Anyone who would like to donate to Richard's cause can do so HERE.

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

Richard was diagnosed with bone cancer in his pelvis just before his 40th birthday and his leg was amputated two years later after great attempts to save it.