AN EX-ARMY engineer is taking part in the race of his life after being inspired to run 1,000 miles in the space of a year by working for Childline.

Robert Clarkson, from Baillieston, is hoping to raise £10k for NSPCC Scotland by taking on the Obstacle Course Scotland challenge, which will see him try to clock up between 20 to 30 miles a week in the gym and on the road.

Robert, 37, decided to take on the mammoth task when he started working as a volunteer in his spare time with Childline in November.

He said: “Being a volunteer has opened my eyes up and this money could be put to real good use.

“I could see where it’d be used so it just seemed like a no-brainer. The volunteering can be tough because you encounter some really challenging situations and calls but at the same time every shift you go away feeling like you’ve made a difference. There are a lot of things going on for children and although it’s tough, you generally feel you’re doing a good job or you’re helping or listening.”

You can support Robert’s fundraising efforts by heading to: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ReactiveTraining