Big-hearted football coach has teamed up with a former Celtic star to kick off a long-distance charity challenge

Andy Young was asked by Simon Donnelly to join him in covering a total of 300km - walking and running - before the end of this month.

Andy and Simon - along with friends Martin Dow and Steven Smith - will each complete their own journey to raise money for Edinburgh Headway and Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity.

The support for Edinburgh Headway is inspired by former Celtic star and Simon's close friend Jackie McNamara, who collapsed after suffering a brain injury in February this year.

Meanwhile the hospital donation will be used to buy iPads for youngsters to help them keep in touch with their families.

Andy, 30, of Kilmacolm, said: "What happened to Jackie shocked everyone in Scotland.

"He was so fit and healthy so it shows that a brain injury can happen to anyone.

"We want to raise awareness of the impact of brain injuries and show what Headway is doing to help families all over Scotland.

"Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity now, more than ever, is in need of funding to support children in their care.

"The children have had to cope with unimaginable circumstances over the last few weeks as well as dealing with severe and lifelong illnesses.

"We want to raise awareness of how difficult it is for kids not getting to see their families.

"Charities are really struggling at the moment and we need to do all we can to help."

Andy, who is a coach at the St Mirren FC Youth Academy, prepared for the 300km challenge by covering 200k last month.

To complete 300, he will walk and run around his local area and keep a record of every journey completed.

He knows the July trek will be tough but says the people being helped by the charities are inspiring him to complete the trek - which is the equivalent of travelling from his house in Kilmacolm all the way to Newcastle.

Andy added: "When I did a 10km earlier this week my body was aching but I just kept thinking about who we're raising money for.

"What we're doing is nothing compared to what they're going through.

"I've already done 200k, so I'm just adding on another 100k this time.

"I know I have to get the physical and mental side right before doing it."

Andy and his running mates are also planning to gather together and auction signed current and retro football shirts to raise money for the good causes.

Simon plans to run 10km a day and will donate £1 for every kilometre completed.

The team is also planning a trek from Fir Park in Motherwell to Celtic Park in Glasgow to generate funds.

Andy is now encouraging others to go the distance.

He added: "Anyone who wants to join us will be very welcome.

"We want to get as many people involved as we can.

"We're all determined to complete the challenge for these phenomenal charities."

To donate, visit www. justgiving.com/fundraising/simon-donnelly-300km-challenge-eh or www.justgiving.com/fundraising/simon-donnelly-300km-challenge-gch