An ultra-runner from the United States is to take on the West Highland Way to raise money for homeless people.

Tim Gore will set off from Glasgow City Mission, which inspired the charity in Colorado where he is a volunteer.

A delegation from Springs Rescue Mission arrived in Glasgow this week to support Tim’s gruelling 102-mile run from Crimea Street to Fort William.

Tim said: “It is a great honour to participate in the West Highland Way Race. It is going to be true challenge but one I am excited to accept. I am dedicating this run to the many people across the world supporting the needs of those who are experiencing homelessness.

“What makes this run even more special for me is to be able to begin from the footsteps of the Glasgow Mission, the historic site of the world’s first mission. We are grateful for their support of me and my team as we begin this challenging adventure from a location that is very inspirational to so many people.”

Graham Steven, Partnerships and Communications Manager at Glasgow City Mission said: “We are delighted that Tim and his team have chosen to begin their adventure from our doors – the first city mission which later proved to inspire the establishment of Springs Rescue in Colorado.

“We’re humbled that the work of Glasgow City Mission and its founder David Nasmith is still proving to be inspirational 190 years later in how it cares for our city’s most vulnerable people.”

Springs Rescue Mission was founded in 1996 when a small group began providing sandwiches to homeless people in Colorado Springs.

The charity has grown to serve the 27,000 households living below the poverty line in the Pikes Peak region.

Development Director Ben Robb, who is pacing part of Tim’s run, said: “Our hope is that Tim’s run inspires people in Colorado Springs and around the globe to help their neighbours experiencing homelessness.

“Not many people can run 100 miles to fight homelessness, but nearly everyone can get involved in some way, whether it’s volunteering at the local soup kitchen, donating to their local rescue mission, or simply committing to making eye contact with people in need and acknowledging their humanity.

“With this effort, Tim has challenged his community to shake off apathy and create positive change—that’s a relevant message if you live in Colorado, Scotland, or anywhere else.”

Larry Yonker, Springs Rescue Mission CEO, added: “At Springs Rescue Mission, many of the men and women we serve have struggled with homelessness or addiction for years. The pathway to recovery, like Tim’s run, is a long and challenging one, and endeavours like Tim’s are as encouraging to our clients as they are to the broader community.”

To sponsor Tim, visit springsrescuemission.org/sponsor-tim.