An Aberdeenshire man is turning his struggles into strength , as he embarks on a mammoth five-day trek in support of a charity close to his heart.

Leighton Collins , from Laurencekirk , has tasked himself with completing the gruelling 96-mile West Highland Way walking trail, as he looks to raise awareness and vital funds for Mind mental health charity.

And this challenge is particularly poignant for Leighton, aged 47, who last year found himself dealing with his own mental health struggles.

"Twelve months ago, I was in a place I never thought I’d come back from," said Leighton.

"Without the support of Mind and my loved ones, including my wife Jennifer, as well as my colleagues at work, I came incredibly close to not being here today."

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