A BANK worker from Musselburgh, who completed a half marathon in his garden, is just short of his £1,000 target in aid of family initiative First Step.

Stephen Ferguson, 32, who has asthma, undertook the challenge as he is ‘shielding’ during the Covid-19 lockdown after receiving advice from the NHS.

He is no stranger to half marathons, having completed three in the past – Glentress Trail, Edinburgh and Stirling.

This time round, he took his treadmill outside at his home and finished his ‘garden’ half marathon – 13.1 miles – in one hour, 44 minutes and 20 seconds.

His efforts have so far raised around £965 for First Step, which supports families with young children.

Mr Ferguson, who works with the Royal Bank of Scotland in Haddington, lives on Musselburgh’s Galt Crescent, near First Step in Galt Avenue, and was inspired to take on the fundraising challenge as his three-year-old son Cormac enjoys attending its nursery.

His wife Louise also attended baby classes there with Cormac.

Originally from Omagh, in Northern Ireland, Mr Ferguson has lived in Scotland since October 2013, and married Louise last October.

He also has a stepdaughter, Aaliyah, 14.

He was helped with his training by Junior Burton of JB Combat Bootcamp, Wallyford, who was there to cheer on Mr Ferguson from a safe distance.

Mr Ferguson said: “The run was really good. My wife Louise went live on Facebook and it was great to hear the well wishes and words of encouragement coming through.

“They really spurred me on to be honest.

“I settled into the run quite comfortably and it wasn’t until I got to about the 16/17km mark that I was starting to feel it a bit.

“I knew at that point though I didn’t have far to go so was just a case of digging deep and getting it done.”

He added: “I was delighted with the amount raised for First Step.

“I am sure it will help a lot of families.”

First Step, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, was set up by a group of parents who wanted somewhere safe and comfortable for them to meet and their children to play.

To donate to the challenge, go to justgiving.com/crowdfunding/stephen-ferguson-3