A BEITH man taking on a mammoth 24-hour challenge for charity is just getting his efforts underway.

Gardener Greig Thomson plans on pushing both himself - and his lawnmower - to their limits as he pushes the machine around North Ayrshire with him for the full duration of a day.

The Garnock Valley local was inspired to complete the effort, in a bid to raise funds for charity Cancer Research, by his mother's strength and determination as she bravely battles the disease.

After his walking commenced at 10am on Friday, May 31, Greig will conclude his effort at the same time the following day at the house of his mum - who is living with stage four breast cancer.

Initially setting out a modest fundraising goal of £1,000, the 42-year-old has been overwhelmed by the support shown since then after generating £3,200 of donations before his walk even began.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Greig Thomson is about to embark on a mammoth 24-hour charity challenge for Cancer Research.

Greig said: “The support I have received from people in and around the community has been unbelievable.

“My family is just one of many who have had their lives affected by cancer, and I was speaking to my mates about needing to do something to raise money for Cancer Research.

“In the space of a week I was working on around seven or eight folks’ gardens, and each one of them said they had been impacted by the disease in some way.

“It was the motivation I needed to go ahead with the 24-hour challenge.”

Greig and his family are particularly well known in Beith, having ran businesses in the area for a number of years.

Prior to her retirement, Greig’s mother, Margaret Thomson, 72, ran the family business Thomson of Beith car dealership with her husband Alex.

Eight years ago, Margaret was first diagnosed with breast cancer, and while she was given the all clear for a few years, the cancer returned in 2021.

This second diagnosis came shortly after Greig set up his own business, Greig’s Gardens, of which Margaret was a huge influence in backing his sole venture.

He added: “She is a remarkable woman who has, and continues to face many challenges in her life, but she just keeps going and never complains about her condition.

“I think about her a lot and at some points during the day it catches you, but she is incredibly strong willed and that resonates throughout the family.

“I know families all around the country are experiencing a similar feeling, and so if I could help in any way, if the money can go towards research and help other folks get through it then I will be extremely happy.”

Greig's walk will begin from his home in Beith, before taking him to the neighbouring towns and villages of Gateside, Barrmill, Dalry and Kilbirnie - before concluding back at his parent's house.

Along the way, he will be joined at different points by family and friends, including his children Caitlyn, 8, and 11-year-old Scott finishing the challenge with him.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Greig Thomson is about to embark on a mammoth 24-hour charity challenge for Cancer Research.

Greig said: “I’ve got good support from the local community so there is certainly no turning back now.

“I believe the world record for someone doing a 24-hour lawnmower push is around 80 miles, but to be honest I’ll be happy with the Garnock Valley record.”

Those wishing to donate to Greig's fundraiser can do so online at tinyurl.com/GreigThomson.