A GROUP of work colleagues will be hiking up Scotland’s tallest mountain to raise money for Cancer Research after their co-worker was given a terminal diagnosis.

Colin Roseweir has assembled 14 of his workmates at O-I Manufacturing glassworks to join him in a climb up to the summit of Ben Nevis in support of their friend Alec McGillivray.

Alec received news that he was diagnosed with terminal cancer earlier this year after seeing the doctor with back pain, prompting Colin to launch a fundraiser in support of Cancer Research UK.

Colin said: “Alec turned up for a nightshift and through the shift, he started complaining about a sore back.

“He ended up in hospital and found out he had cancer. I went home and talked with my wife about how we could help him.

“She suggested we do a charity walk for Ben Nevis to raise money for Cancer Research, so that’s how the whole thing came about.”

Alec spent several weeks in The Beatson, receiving initial cancer care before he was allowed to return home.

The all-Clacks group will be spending the night in Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis before embarking on the hike.

At the time of writing, Colin has already managed to raise £2000 for Cancer Research UK, but hopes he can get as much raised as possible.

“I do a lot of Munros so I’m looking forward to it,” Colin added. “For some of the guys this will be their first hike so they’re feeling excited as well.

“We’ll be going up the mountain path which is the safest route up at this time of year – then some of the guys who are fitter have asked me to take them down the Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête, which is a bit more challenging.

“Alec will be joining us in Fort William alongside a few of the guys who aren’t doing the hike, just to spend time with him.

“We thought this would be a good way to show Alec that we’re still here for him.”

To support Colin’s fundraiser, visit fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/colins-giving-page-290