Two Maldon business owners are preparing for their annual 100-mile fundraising walk across Scotland, which will this year raise money for a charity close to their hearts.

Gregg Morrish and Will Ayling will embark on their walk - from just outside Glasgow to Pitlochry - tomorrow (Sunday, 12 September), and hope to reach their final destination just six days later.

The men, who own Maldon-based building maintenance company G&C Painting, decided to dedicate this year's walk to Ataxia UK, following the diagnosis of Gregg's dad with the condition.

Gregg said: "We have decided to walk for Ataxia UK this year because my dad, who used to do a lot of over 100-mile walks, has now been diagnosed with this cruel disease that as yet has no cure.

"It affects your speech, walking, eating, talking and general ability to move about.

"Since my dad's diagnosis, Ataxia UK has been really helpful - he will be joining Ataxia UK very soon."

Ataxia is an umbrella term for a group of neurological disorders that affect coordination, balance and speech.

There are around 10,000 adults and 500 children in the UK with a progressive ataxia.

Ataxia UK funds research into finding treatments and a cure for the rare condition, while providing support for those affected.

Gregg and Will are looking forward to finally being able to complete the walk for the charity, as their plans have been cancelled twice due to the pandemic.

The 100-mile charity walk has become a tradition for the business partners, who embark on the challenge each year for a different organisation.

Gregg said: "Each year, we give up around seven to ten days of our time and try to do a walk of at least 100 miles, raising money for a new charity each year.

"Our longest walk was 180 miles over 13 days, for Contact the Elderly.

"We have now raised just over £10,000 so far from our five walks.

"Everyone's continued support over the years keeps us going."

The men will be wearing their Ataxia UK shirts on their walk, which have been given to them by the charity.

You can view and donate to Gregg and Will's fundraiser using the link here.