A WEE COUNTY man whose son was born with a heart condition will trek to Machu Picchu in a bid to "give something back".

Brian Robinson will be on his feet for around six to eight hours a day as he walks in high altitude to reach the iconic Peruvian landmark.

The 45-year-old felt motivated to take part in the once in a lifetime experience, which he is self-funding, to help children born with heart conditions.

Thirteen years ago his son underwent major surgery when he was just a toddler and now the Alloa man wants to join the fight against heart disease.

Brian said: "My son John was born with a congenital heart condition in 2003. He had open heart surgery when he was aged only two, at Yorkhill in Glasgow, he is now aged 15 and is doing well.

"This is a great opportunity for me to give something back and help the British Heart Foundation’s continued fight against heart disease."

Brian, an engineer working in Edinburgh, will set off in a few weeks with his Machu Picchu trek taking place between October 4-13.

He has been busy preparing for the task by taking on training weekends, which included a trip to Torridon with 2500m of assent and 25 miles.

He has raised hundreds so far, but would be grateful for any donation, big or small, to the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to help him meet his £1000 target.

The national charity funds research each year into heart and circulatory diseases which look at the things that cause them and cures.

It is said in the UK there are around 4,600 babies born with congenital heart disease each year – one in every 145 births.

Nancy Smith, head of events at the BHF, said: "Thanks to Brian for taking on this challenge and supporting the BHF.

"Without our supporters we cannot continue to fund life-saving research into heart disease and provide those affected with care and support they need."