A man is set to zipline across the Clyde to raise funds for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS).

Matt Ramsay, a trustee of Walking Football Scotland, will take part in the Zipslide the Clyde event on August 31 which will see participants zipline from a crane next to the Glasgow Riverside Museum, 100ft in the air, and glide 1,245ft along the Clyde.

Last year, the charity and Walking Football Scotland formed a partnership to improve health outcomes for thousands of over-50s.

Matt has witnessed the positive impact of walking football on many players, including one man who had a heart attack after a tournament.

Matt said: “One man’s story always resonates with me.

“He was playing a walking football tournament in Glasgow and dashed away because he was going up north with his wife for his wedding anniversary.

“While he was on the road he had a heart attack and when he went to the hospital the surgeon asked him what exercise he does.

“He told the surgeon he plays walking football and the surgeon said that’s what’s saved his life.

“Because he played he was so much fitter it was his walking football that saved him. If he hadn’t been playing he might not be here today."

To support his zipslide challenge, go to www.justgiving.com/page/wfs-chss-2024.

He said the partnership between Walking Football Scotland and CHSS has been a great way to encourage more people to take part in the sport and raise awareness of the importance of physical activity in improving heart health.

He said: “So many of our players across the country have got involved in walking football for their overall health, their mental health, and for the social side of the sport.

“I’ve never done anything like this before but I’m looking forward to it.”

Louise MacLeod, community, events and corporate fundraiser at CHSS, said: "Zipslide the Clyde is one of the most thrilling fundraisers out there and we thank Matt for his support and taking part for CHSS and we’d encourage other people to sign up and take part.

“The funds raised will help us to support the 1 in 5 people across the country who are living with chest, heart and stroke conditions and Long Covid to live their lives to the full.”