A BIG-hearted walker is taking on a new charity challenge just months after smashing the West Highland Way to help stricken soldiers.

Margaret Barron, 53, will put her best foot forward to cover 23 miles for the Glasgow Kiltwalk to again raise vital cash for the Homeless Veterans Project.

The Skelmorlie native comes from a military family, with her brothers and sons all servicemen, including one who set up his own charity to support those needing help after being discharged.

It provides accommodation for ex-service personnel experiencing homelessness and also works to tackle other underlying issues such as alcohol abuse, drug addiction and PTSD.

Margaret says she was delighted to step up to help.

She said: “My brother and some of the other charity volunteers were doing it this year so I decided to join them after my success on the West Highland Way.

“The more money we can raise the better. It is such a worthy cause and helps so many people across the country.

“They help to rehome former veterans, as well as support them through issues involving drugs and alcohol.

“The Kiltwalk is on April 30 so not far away at all, but hopefully all my previous walking experience can help me through."

Margaret says the marathon distance will be a challenge, but hopes the camaraderie between walkers can push her on.

She explained: “The route is from Glasgow to Balloch, which is longer than any of the stretches I did on the West Highland Way.

“I’m hoping my experience however will stand me in good stead, although the terrain will be very different.

“I have been out walking a lot of weekends to try and build up the miles and get my body used to doing it again.

“There are five or six of us from the charity walking, so hopefully that means we can keep our spirits up when the going gets tough.”

The group are hoping to raise £5,000 between them, which Margaret says will go a long way for the charity.

She said: “We are hoping to get a big amount through out combined fundraising, which will be hard but we think we can do it.

“Personally I have set myself a smaller target of £200 and anything I can bring in above that will be a bonus in my eyes.

“Times are hard at the moment so anything that anyone can spare would be gratefully appreciated."

Donations can be made at www.gofundme.com/f/dabm3-kilt-walk.