Every step counts as community supports the Bone Cancer Research Trust

Walkers put their best feet forward and braved wind and rain through the month of May, to complete a daily step challenge and raise money for the Bone Cancer Research Trust.

More than 26 teams of four took part in the challenge, to walk 10,000 steps a day or the equivalent of 500 miles altogether (from Stockinish in the Bays of Harris, to Glasgow, and back). This challenge was inspired by Lydia, a pupil at Sir E Scott school who has been receiving treatment for a rare form of bone cancer.

The Bone Cancer Research Trust is the leading UK charity funding research into primary bone cancer and aims to save lives and improve outcomes for people affected through research, information, awareness and support.

Fundraising step challenges have become a popular feature of Harris community life, with the Christmas lights and school fund among previous beneficiaries. Imaginative team names this time included Pace the West, Wander Women, Isle Walk 500 miles, and Cookie Dough Feetza. Both children and adults took part.

Donna MacLeod, one of the organisers, said: “Well done every-one, a fantastic community effort yet again. Together we have shown what a community can achieve. Every step has counted, and every donation has made a difference. Thank you to all for being part of it.”

Harris Football Club joined the fund-raising effort earlier this month, holding a collection for the charity at their local derby match against Lochs FC at Rally Park.

More than £300 was raised at the gate and there was a great result for Harris, who entered the game 4-1 down from the first leg, then won 7-1 (8-5 on aggregate) taking them to the semi-finals of the Eilean an Fhraoich Cup.

To mark the occasion, Lochs supporter Nina Mackinnon donned a Harris FC top and Murdo F MacLeod wore Lochs colours. The Step Challenge and football fundraising combined have raised more than £3000 for the Bone Cancer Research Trust.