Gamekeeper's trek in friend's memory

A Fife-born gamekeeper is hoping a 120-mile walk he starts today, will highlight the hereditary condition that killed his lifelong friend.

Colin Hisbent will walk from Glencoe to Kirkcaldy in memory of Paul Bonner.

The 44-year-old died in January from marfan syndrome - which affects connective tissue and various organs, including the heart and lungs.

The pair had been friends since primary school.

Colin admits it will be a long haul:

Connective tissue holds all the body’s cells, organs and tissue together and plays an important role in helping the body grow and develop properly.

Because connective tissue is found throughout the body, Marfan syndrome can affect many different parts of it, including the heart, blood vessels, bones, joints, and eyes. 

Some Marfan features can be life-threatening. 

The lungs, skin and nervous system may also be affected. 

Marfan syndrome does not affect intelligence.

Colin has set up a TSB account to take donations for the Marfan Association UK.

The number is 77017263 and the sort code 87-68-87