CHRISTMAS dinner was put on hold for one Helensburgh family last month as they helped raise more than £3,000 for charity.

Football fan Denis Beattie decided to take on a fund-raising challenge on December 25 by walking from Ibrox Stadium – home of his beloved Rangers FC – to his home in Kirkmichael in aid of Samaritans and the Stroke Association.

The 23-mile trek was inspired by guidance from medical experts after Denis suffered a mini stroke during 2019.

And despite having to wait for a well-deserved feast on Christmas Day, wife Ali Beattie said it was all worthwhile.

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She said: “When someone you love has a stroke it puts everything into perspective.

“Over the months since Den’s stroke he decided to take the heart consultant’s advice and stop smoking and get healthy.

“He has raised over £3,000 so far and I'm sure the money shared between both charities will be gratefully received.

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“Christmas Day was busy for me trying to organise people to meet him en route to surprise him and keep him going.

“Quite a few of our friends managed to postpone their Christmas dinners to welcome Den and congratulate him at Colquhoun Square.

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“I am of course immensely proud of Den. He's a genuinely kind and caring husband, son and dad.

“I'm sure he will be doing much more of this in the future. Just watch this space.”

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