A FOOTBALL duo are taking a hike for charity.

Former Rangers player Bobby Watson and Manchester United scout Martin Ferguson, will walk the West Island Way, on Bute, to raise cash for hospices.

The pair, dubbing themselves the Odd Couple, will trek 30 miles over two days to help the Prince and Princess of Wales hospice and St Andrew's Hospice.

Martin, brother of Sir Alex Ferguson, said: "I think it'll be a big challenge.

"Bobby works out more than I do, I just tend to walk but Bobby still does running.

"He's practically a honed athlete."

"It will be hard but we will have a go for the cause."

The 71-year-old became an ambassador for the Prince and Princess of Wales hospice after his wife was helped by the charity.

He added: "My brother has sponsored us - he was our first - and we are hoping others do as well."

The pair are looking to raise around £5000 each for the charities, which help to support people during the last stages of life, as well as their families.

Martin is also planning to sell hundreds of football programmes from his private collection to raise cash.

Bobby, 70, a former Motherwell and Airdrie manager, said: "It's going to be more than a challenge but it's for such a good cause.

"People don't realise the amount of work they are doing and we want to support them as much as we can.

"The weekend we are doing it there are a few things going on in Bute and Rothesay, so we are hoping people will take the opportunity while we are there to donate.

"We are having a bit of fun with it as well and we are really looking forward to it."

The duo are not planning to practise much before the walk, which will see them trek from Kilchattan Bay to Port Bannatyne, then to Rhubodach and back.

In total they will travel nearly 50km.

To support the pair visit www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/MartinAndBobby

hannah.rodger@eveningtimes.co.uk