A RENFREW pensioner has coined in more than £10,000 for a worthy cause by tackling a marathon with a difference.

Jim Clark, 74, set himself the task of walking for a total of 26.2 miles over three days in aid of the Rangers Supporters Erskine Appeal (RSEA).

The money he raised will help to pay for a hybrid car for the Erskine veterans charity.

As a Rangers season ticket holder, Jim had an initial fundraising target of £1,872 – in honour of 1872, which is the year his beloved club was founded – but quickly smashed that total.

He was joined by loved ones, including his wife Robina and three of their grandchildren, at Ibrox as he completed his marathon challenge.

Also there to lend support was Rangers legend Davy Wilson, who is a former serviceman.

After crossing the finish line, Jim said: “I am so happy that I agreed to take up this challenge for Erskine’s veterans.

“I extended my usual local route by walking in Bishopton and Erskine, then onto the Craigmaddie Reservoir, in Milngavie. I also walked local circuits around Renfrew before heading to Ibrox stadium to conclude my 26 miles.

“I cannot thank those who donated enough. To hit over £10,000 shows staggering generosity from my family and friends, as well as complete strangers via social media.

“I’d encourage others to help Erskine by setting a personal fundraising challenge in these unusual times. It’s a very rewarding thing to do.”

The Gazette: Rangers legend Davy Wilson (second left) was among those at Ibrox to offer Jim supportRangers legend Davy Wilson (second left) was among those at Ibrox to offer Jim support

Jim has offered his thanks to the Dunfermline Loyal RSC (Rangers Supporters Club), Peterhead True Blues RSC and the Keith and District True Blues RSC for matching the initial fundraising target by donating a combined sum of £1,872.

Thanks also go to the Brethern and Friends of Lodges Douglas 1557 and Lodge Kil Bryd 1667, in East Kilbride, for their joint donation of £1,520.

Karen McAulay, Erskine’s community fundraising manager, said: “This is a phenomenal amount raised by Jim for our veterans and we are extremely grateful to him, his family and friends for contributing to this wonderful total.

“Erskine has to raise over £10million each year to support our veterans, which has been particularly challenging this year due to the pandemic.

“With the generosity and commitment of our donors and supporters like Jim, we will be able to continue to provide veterans with the high-quality care and support services they deserve.”

Anyone who would like to take on a fundraising challenge for Erskine is asked to call 0141 814 4625 or visit www.erskine.org.uk.