AN offshore worker from Greenock is well drilled for a gruelling marathon challenge in aid of two good causes.

Ross Barr, from Greenock, started running during the first lockdown back in March to keep fit.

The 23-year-old found it helped after he unfortunately lost his job in the oil and gas industry due to the pandemic.

Restrictions meant he wasn't able to keep up his gym fitness routine so he took to pounding the pavements instead.

Now with gyms shut once again, he's decided to challenge himself to run a marathon in aid of two charities - Man On Inverclyde and Scottish Autism - with only six weeks of training.

Ross said: "I started to run back at the beginning of lockdown as felt like I was in a bit of a downer and needed to keep motivated.

"I decided to do a half marathon back in November just for fun and said I'd never do anything near that length again.

"With normality seeming to be getting further away, I wanted to do something not just to keep myself going, but to raise funds for these two good causes who are struggling for funds due to the pandemic."

Ross, who is now back working in his industry again, chose both charities as he has had personal experiences with the work they do.

He told the Tele: "My brother is autistic, so Scottish Autism is a charity that's close to home and one that I knew I wanted to support.

"A good few of my pals are on the committee with Man On and I know they do so much good work.

"I had initially just set out to raise £1,000 but hit that within 12 hours, which just shows how well thought on these charities are."

Ross, of Bawhirley Road, added: "When I lost my job I started to work for Tesco doing deliveries, so felt right in amongst it all during the lockdown.

"It really made me appreciate what these people do for others and was an eye-opener to the work happening locally."

Ross will run his marathon on February 28 and is training every day.

His 26.2 route will take him from Lunderston Bay to Langbank.

He said: "I'm excited but nervous as it'll be my first proper marathon.

"I've had great support from everyone so far and really appreciate everyone who has donated."

*To donate to Ross' fundraiser, visit bit.ly/2MbKiDJ