SOUTH LANARKSHIRE farmer James Baillie completed an inspiring 26-mile run to raise vital funds for Blood Cancer UK over the bank holiday weekend.

Running in memory of his late uncle Andy Wilson, of Crumhaugh Farm, Stonehouse, Mr Baillie's marathon efforts have so far raised over £4000 for the charity.

Before lockdown was imposed, he was due to complete the five Scottish island hop this May, alongside college friend Alexander Park of Bourtreebush Farm. However, due to ferry and travel restrictions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, alternative plans were made, but this also meant that family and friends were able to come out in force and support him locally during the run.

James shared his thanks: "A huge thank you to everyone who took time over the weekend to donate , support or run with me during my local lockdown marathon. I cannot believe the response from people and along with cash donations over £4000 will be going to Blood Cancer UK.

"Thanks to the people that came out in cars or stood along the route. A special mention to Gavin Baillie, Jenny Baillie, Wilson Frame, Robert Allison, Andrew Currie, Boab Anderson, Tom Anderson and Alexander Park who ran different sections with me."

Close family friends Willie and Margaret Bryson shared a tribute to Mr Wilson, a former dairy farmer who was much loved within the Scottish farming community: "Andy was a very good friend of ours who has been sorely missed during the last ten years. He was the friendliest and most respected person, often helping neighbours out. He loved farming and put a lot of thought into any building projects. He quite often helped us at local shows by transporting and preparing the cows. His great love in life was his family and he loved to speak about his nephews, James and Gavin, and his niece, Jennifer."