FORMER policeman and army veteran Mick Waters has set a goal to walk 1000 miles to raise funds for Poppyscotland and will celebrate his 67th birthday during the marathon trek.

Waters will walk the End-to-End challenge from Land’s End to John O’Groats by a circuitous route with just one day off at home in Inverness.

Originally hailing from South London, Waters joined the British Army in 1973 at the tender age of 18. He served with the 5th Dragoon Guards, a calvary regiment, for the first five years, then transferred to the Royal Military Police where he served for a further 17 years.

After he retired from life in the Armed Forces, Mick wanted a change of pace and moved his family to Scotland. Settling in Inverness he joined what was then the Northern Police Constabulary and became an integral part of the local community.

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Now fully retired and still hungry for adventure, Waters has decided to challenge himself both physically and mentally once more.

Commenting on the journey, he said: “The End-to-End challenge has been on my bucket list for some time, not only as a personal goal but also as a way for me to fundraise for Poppyscotland, a charity that is very close to my heart.

“The beauty of this expedition is there is no direct route, so you can do it the way that suits you.

"I’ll be starting my journey via the southwest coastal path in Land’s End to Bristol and will then cross into Wales following Offa’s Dyke path, then head east across the Pennine Way. I’ll then be travelling north to Scotland following the West Highland Way to Fort William, and onwards to Inverness.

“I’ve given myself one day off to re-group with family, before heading back onto the road on the John O’Groats trail until I reach my final destination. I’ll be doing the walk completely unaided and will be carrying all my supplies and tent in my pack. It’s not going to be a cake walk by any stretch of the imagination, but I’m doing this for a very worthy cause which keeps me motivated.”

Poppyscotland are best known for the annual Scottish Poppy Appeal in November, however the charity works tirelessly year-round to help the Armed Forces community in Scotland. They provide life-changing support from mental health, employment, and housing.

Waters added: “I served in the Army for 22 years, and when you leave that life—the routine and the camaraderie of the Military family—you can feel completely lost and unsure of how to start that new chapter.

“The majority of people don’t realise that when you leave the Service, especially if you joined as a teenager, you have never paid your own bills, lived in privately-owned accommodation, or interviewed for a job.

“Navigating what are everyday situations to most can be extremely daunting for veterans. The money I raise from my walk will provide Poppyscotland with the funds needed to carry out their vital work.”

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Gordon Michie, Head of Fundraising at Poppyscotland said: “The Covid-19 pandemic halted all our major fundraising events, yet we have still continued to provide uninterrupted support to the Armed Forces community and their families.

“Our work relies on supporters like Mick, who not only raise the crucial funds we need, but also champion our mission. Those who have served or are still serving, whether Regular or Reserve, are deserving of our support to live life fully without disadvantage after service.

“I want to send my utmost thanks to Mick for taking on this challenge, and on behalf of the whole Poppyscotland team we wish him the best of luck and safe travels.”

To follow Mick Waters’ journey and to help him raise funds for Poppyscotland, please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mick-waters1