Lanark Tesco manager putshis walking boots on

Richard is currently working with Lanark man Gordon McGregor who leads the Paradventures initiative, a Lanark-based charity making outdoor adventure activities possible for people with disabilities.

Gordon works closely with Lanark Grammar ASN Unit and Stanmore House to create opportunities for groups there and he will use the funds raised by the walk to provide some experiences of a lifetime for pupils.

Richard hopes to raise thousands of pounds by completing the Great Glen Way.

“It is about being a good neighbour in Lanark and what Tesco can do for the community,” said Richard. “I am the leader of the store, and I need to lead by example. But it will be a stretch and challenge for me as an individual.”

Richard (51) added that he has always supported other people by signing sponsor sheets or putting money in a tin, but this is the first time he has embarked on such a challenge himself.

“It is kind of a life goal for me,” he said.

With two friends he plans to walk the 80 miles over five days, starting on Monday, March 7, and is going in the opposite direction from most walkers to allow other people to join him on the final stretch.

On the final day, an 11-mile stretch from Gairlochy to Fort William, colleagues from the Lanark store, Gordon and his team and a young girl, Poppy McKenzie, with an All Terrain Wheelchair will be walking together to the finish line. Poppy is part of the inspiration behind this great challenge.

Richard is hoping to raise over £11,000 which could take disabled youngsters on a long weekend at Aviemore. Gordon, a former Lanark Lord Cornet, founded Paradventures after years of arranging adventure holidays and being involved with disabled people. The charity has a pool of talented volunteers and generous sponsors, and Aviemore has already proved popular in letting disabled adults and children experience the outdoors.

All donations will be greatly appreciated, and customers will be able to put cash in the buckets in the Lanark Tesco Store to bring that dream holiday closer.