Tommy The Clown fears he may have to bring his act to an end as he has been forced off the road

Tommy 'the Clown' Armstrong, who is 78 years old, no longer has a car to travel around the country to his long distance runs and other events.

His old car was written off after someone ran into it in a car park and he is struggling to get a new set of wheels.

In the last year the Greenock senior citizen has travelled hundreds of miles to raise money for charities like Mary's Meals and Children in Poverty Inverclyde, but now he may have to give it all up.

The pensioner - who has raised an astonishing £250,000 for good causes over the years - is appealing for help from the public to give him a bump start and get him back on the road.

Tommy said: "I can't get around to pick things up and go to events because I no longer have a car to do it.

"It was a struggle to even get to the Gourock Garden Party at the weekend.

"I usually go all over the country.

"I couldn't believe it when someone ran into my car and it was written off.

"It is very hard for me to find a car that I can rely on and afford."

Tommy is one of Inverclyde's best loved figures and has devoted his life to raising money for dozens of charities.

He has completed more than 12 marathons and continues to take part in charity runs.

He was one of the Tele's first ever Community Champions and has even appeared on ITV's This Morning for his exploits.

Now he is hoping people in Inverclyde can step in to help him get a car so he can continue with the charity work he loves so much.

Tommy added: "I am looking for a new car and I do have some money I can put towards it but it has to be a car that I can rely on.

"I want to be able to go to events and take my cuddly toys and all the other things I give out."

If anyone thinks they can help get Tommy back on the road contact the Tele newsroom on 558908.