Livingston fundraiser goes above and beyond for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland 16 October 2026 For most people a 22-mile walk is a big enough challenge. But for Craig Thomson he decided to go the extra nine miles! The 34-year-old completed an ultramarathon-distance challenge in support of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, extending the charity’s 22-mile Wee Westie route to cover 30 miles in September. Craig took on the trail run and hike along the West Highland Way from Milngavie to Balmaha, including the climb and descent of Conic Hill. After reaching the event finish, he added the extra distance needed to complete an ultramarathon. Craig, from Livingston, was inspired to raise money after his father-in-law, Scott, had a major stroke in 2021. Scott has been left without movement on his right-hand side but has made significant progress during his recovery. Craig, who works in marketing and advertising, said: “I thought, if I’m doing 22 miles, I’ll do 31 so I can say I’ve done an ultramarathon up the West Highland Way! “I always had in the back of my mind that I’d love to push for an ultra-marathon distance and managed to do it, despite getting lost at one point and ending up wading through a knee-high river and a sheep field! “I love fitness challenges, and this felt like a really cool event to take on. “Scott has been left with lifelong effects, but his recovery has been incredible. From where he was after the stroke, he has done really well and had an incredible recovery. He has also fundraised for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland before, so this was an important cause for me to support.” Craig’s fundraising page remains open for donations at https://shorturl.at/vPE5V Julianne Scarlett fundraising events assistant at CHSS, said: “Taking on the Wee Westie is already a big challenge but we’re amazed by Craig’s dedication and determination to, truly, go above and beyond for CHSS. “We are grateful to Craig for choosing to fundraise for CHSS. Funds raised will help us support the 1 in 5 people in Scotland who are living with chest, heart and stroke conditions and Long Covid to live life to the full.” If you’re living with the effects of a chest, heart or stroke condition or Long Covid and are looking for advice and information, please contact Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0899. You can also text ADVICE to 66777 or email adviceline@chss.org.uk.