A FORTH VALLEY man is set to take on an enormous challenge in Switzerland to raise money for Scottish Autism.

Martin Abercromby has signed up to the annual Ironman Triathlon, held on July 10 in the Swiss town of Thun, where he will take on the heroic challenge of completing a 2.4 mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and run a full distance marathon all on the same day.

He will be raising money for Scottish Autism, Scotland's largest provider of autism-specific services, as his son attends the charity's New Struan School in Alloa, which has been leading the delivery of specialist education for children and young people with autism in Scotland for over 35 years.

Looking ahead to his challenge, Martin said: "This is a huge challenge but one I am looking forward to taking on.

“I began preparing for this event several weeks ago as part of my six month training schedule which will be seriously challenging, both mentally and physically.

"I hope I can raise some much needed funds for Scottish Autism. The charity does great work in supporting autistic children, young people and adults.

"My son Adrian is currently benefitting from attending New Struan School in Alloa, the only Scottish autism-run school in Scotland.

"Attending New Struan has completely changed Adrian's school life and gives him the education he and others deserve. It is extremely fortunate that he has a placement at a school which specialises in supporting autistic pupils.

"Thank you to everyone who has donated so far to help me towards my £1,200 target."

Scottish Autism’s mission is to enable autistic people to lead happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. They offer innovative and highly personalised services for autistic individuals.

Karen Wilson, Scottish Autism's Income Generation lead, added: "We are thrilled that Martin has chosen to take on this colossal challenge to fundraise for Scottish Autism.

“We are extremely grateful to Martin and to everyone who donates to his JustGiving page.

"Scottish Autism is Scotland's largest provider of autism-specific services and all funds raised help to provide vital support for autistic people and their families right across Scotland when it's needed most, including maintaining our Autism Advice Line which has seen calls treble since the beginning of the pandemic.

"We wish Martin all the best with his training and in completing this incredible challenge."

Visit justgiving.com/fundraising/martin-abercromby-ironman to donate to Martin's fundraiser.