A CHARITY champ who is walking the coast of the UK says he received a hero’s welcome when he arrived in Inverclyde.

Chris Lewis was overwhelmed by the kindness shown by local people who looked after him when he arrived in the area this week.

The 37-year-old from Swansea, who previously served in 2nd Battalion Parachute Regiment, has given up his home and belongings to walk the coast of the UK.

He is doing it to raise money for SSAFA — a UK charity which provides welfare and support for those serving in the armed forces, veterans and armed forces families. 

This week, eight months into his mammoth challenge, Chris and his rescue dog Jet were given a much needed boost from locals.

Chris said: “Inverclyde is a wonderful place.

“I set up camp in the woods in Inverkip and for the first time on my trip, people came out at night into the woods with their head torches on to bring me food and hot drinks.

“This is a first for me — it was amazing.

“One person brought along their dogs which ate some of my sausages so they came back with more supplies, which blew me away.

“Not only that but they also brought me breakfast and lunch.”

Chris was inspired to take on the walk as he knows first hand how important the charity is.

He said: “I have had some challenging times since returning to civilian life. 

“As a single parent, I’ve been bringing up my daughter for the last 10 years and SSAFA have really helped me keep my head above water throughout that time. 

“I honestly don’t know where I would be without their help and support.”

During his time in Inverclyde, Chris was joined by local people as he trekked from Inverkip to Gourock and then on to Greenock.

He added: “It took me an hour to do one mile just from chatting to locals —  I loved it.

“I was shocked by how many people pulled over to say hi and donate to the SSAFA

“Folks even came out looking for me and Jet to see if there was anything we needed.”

Chris said he also received great support when he reached Port Glasgow.

He said: “Folk here just want to help and chat away.

“It won’t be long before I’m in the middle of nowhere, so I enjoy the company.

“It has been amazing.”

Chris expects to finish his epic challenge in 18 months time.

Anyone who would like to donate to his appeal can do so online at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/chriswalks