Former footballer to don kilt for charity fundraising walk in the Highlands
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Former Highland League footballer Colin MacLeod will don his kilt for a 30km walk this weekend to help a charity hit by a flood earlier this year.
The 46-year-old is taking part in Scotland’s Virtual Kiltwalk in aid of the Oxygen Works which uses oxygen therapy to treat people with various conditions at its base in Burnett Road, Inverness.
The building was damaged in February when frozen pipes burst – despite the heating being left on – resulting in the collapse of the ceiling in the office and kitchen.
Mr MacLeod, who lives in the city’s Muirtown district, will walk the section of the Great Glen Way from Drumnadrochit to Inverness on his own due to the coronavirus pandemic.
He revealed he will be donning the Mackay tartan, his mother’s tartan, rather than his Ancient MacLeod kilt.
"I am getting married later in the year and don’t want to risk getting it spoiled on the walk," said Mr MacLeod, who will marry fiancée Shona Mackenzie in September.
Mr MacLeod, who played for Clachnacuddin, Lossiemouth and Nairn County, is an IT service engineer for Highland Office Equipment.
Although the 30km distance will be a first for Mr MacLeod, he keeps fit by walking and cycling.
He has previously used the facilities at the Oxygen Works and says it is a cause close to his heart.
As well as oxygen therapy, the centre also provides physiotherapy, massage and reflexology which can help with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cancer, Parkinson’s, diabetes and injuries.
"I was introduced to the Oxygen Works a few years ago by a friend who started working there," Mr MacLeod said.
"Charities are struggling more than ever at the moment because of the pandemic. The Oxygen Works has also had a flood. It needs the money to get things running again."
He has set up a fundraising page and has raised almost £300 so far.
Every penny he raises will be topped up by 50 per cent courtesy of The Hunter Foundation.
To donate, visit ScotlandsVirtualKiltwalk2021-ColinMacLeod
Related story:Flood-hit charity invites people to join fundraising walk
