A SALVATION Army officer is ready to push his body to the limit to raise funds for the most vulnerable people in society.

Port Glasgow-based officer Ian Arthur has also signed up two of his closest friends to take on a Tough Mudder challenge with him.

It comes a year after his wife Hattie, a fellow Salvationist, ran two half marathons for the same cause.

They are hoping to smash their £3,500 target for the charity’s Big Collection appeal.

Ian said: “I think it is my turn this year after Hattie ran two half marathons.

“I fancied Tough Mudder although I am not quite as fit as I once was.

“I am putting in the training though.”

The money he raises will help national projects such as hostels which help victims of trafficking and, at a local level, the floating support service for those with alcohol and drug abuse issues in Greenock.

Since moving to Port Glasgow Ian and Hattie, who have four boys, have been overwhelmed by the support shown towards the charity in the town.

But they are also aware of a growing need locally and their food parcel service, which runs on a Friday, is a lifeline for many families in need.

Ian said: “There has been a sharp increase in demand recently because of the Universal Credit system roll out — people are left with nothing.

“We rely on donations and many of the people who need us return with a bag of food when they are back on their feet.”

The couple are relishing their spell in Inverclyde and say they feel at home in the Port.

Ian, based in King Street, said: “Port Glasgow is a wonderful place to be with a great community and great views.

“We love it.”

Corps officer Ian, originally from Yorkshire, will be taking on Tough Mudder along with Stuart Logan, a fellow Port Glasgow member, and his friend Thomas Coker, a major in the Royal Dragoon Guards currently serving in Estonia.

You can donate to their fundraising effort by logging on to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/PortGlasgow-SA-Mudders