A man with visual impairments and mobility issues is facing a challenging round of golf in an effort to raise money for a mental health project, following his younger brother’s passing 20 years ago.

Alex Galloway, 64, of North Berwick’s Lochbridge Road, suffered three strokes in two days in August 2018, which permanently affected his sight and mobility.

Johnny Galloway, Alex’s brother, had mental health challenges and sadly took his own life in November 2004, aged 42.

The pair grew up in Gullane, often playing golf together, and Alex has decided to commemorate his brother on the 20th anniversary of his death by raising as much money as possible for mental health services provided by the North Berwick Youth Project (NBYP).

Six years after his strokes, Alex continues to access one-to-one support from Sight Scotland to help him adjust to and live with major sight loss.

Speaking to the Courier, the former care service worker said: “My younger brother killed himself 20 years ago and someone else close to me took their life recently.

“The NBYP are doing some absolutely tremendous work and they have campaigned with mental health at the forefront of their project for some time – that is why I am raising money for them.

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“I am looking to raise money to increase awareness for youngsters because it is critical for our young people, who are struggling with their mental health, to gain access to the help they need.”

Alex played a similar golfing fundraiser in 2021, raising more than £5,000, but he used a buggy to help him round the course at the Glen Golf Club.

This year, he intends to walk the full course, and admitted it would be a lot tougher taking on this year’s golfing challenge; though he will be supported by friend Stephen Herkes, who will caddy for him round the 18 holes.

Alex said: “I can walk around a golf course without playing but swinging a club numerous times, that will be really tough.

“It will be really hard but I’m going to be having some help along the way.

“One of my friends, Stephen, is going to be caddying for me, so it will be a lot easier but I can’t wait to get started on that course and raise some money because there are kids out there who desperately need help.”

Alex’s challenge takes place next Tuesday (August 6).

To donate to his JustGiving page, visit justgiving.com/page/alex-galloway-1717151335667