A former international rugby star has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity after walking the West Highland Way barefoot.
Arbroath resident Roger Moore, Zimbabwe’s youngest-ever front row rugby forward, completed the 95-mile hike in aid of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.
The charity, which raises funds for research into Motor Neurone Disease (MND), was set up by popular former Scotland rugby star Doddie Weir who is battling the debilitating condition.
Roger, who played in world cups in 1987 and 1991, said many thought he was crazy for attempting the feat but stressed he felt the need to do something extraordinary to raise as much money as possible.
“People don’t realise the resilience of our bodies until they actually attempt something that seems crazy,” he said.
“My feet were sore of course, particularly going downhill, but it was more than worth the sacrifice to help Doddie and his cause.
“I was elated and a little relieved. I have never let anyone down before and was never going to this time.
“I love being barefoot and that comes from my upbringing in what was formerly called Rhodesia — I didn’t get my first pair of shoes until I was eight years old.
“That wasn’t because we couldn’t afford them, that’s just what it was like over there.”
Roger, who has lived in Arbroath for around 30 years, ticked off the Milngavie to Fort William challenge in 69 hours — just under three days.
The 53-year-old former soldier said he also wanted to be successful for son Joshua, 22, and two-year-old granddaughter Daizy.
He said: “I hope I’ve made them proud. Daizy has the most beautiful smile and my heart just melts when I see her.
“The most I slept was around four and a half hours so I just marched on as much as I could.
“I have some health problems from my time in the military so I don’t sleep much anyway.
“I mostly ate packed dry meat and canned food like tuna and I brought some cans of cider along with me.
“I’ve been in some really bad situations before so this was nothing in comparison.”
Roger, who is hoping for a Scotland win against Wales on Saturday, said he is not sure about the exact amount raised because all donations have gone straight through the foundation.
To donate, visit www.myname5doddie.co.uk/donate
