Former footballer John Hartson is throwing a party to celebrate the fifth anniversary of his battle against cancer – and his final fundraising walk up Ben Nevis.
The 39-year-old and his wife Sarah, who is originally from Spean Bridge, are hosting the BraveHart Bash in Fort William’s Nevis Centre later this month.
Proceeds from the event on Saturday July 26 will go to the former Celtic, Arsenal and West Ham striker’s charity, The John Hartson Foundation, which aims to make people aware of the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer and to provide support to people with cancer and their families.
Mr Hartson and his wife, Sarah, regularly visit the Lochaber to see her parents, Katherine and James McManus.
And he spent a lot of time in the area in 2009 as he recovered from his gruelling treatment for testicular cancer, which had spread to his lungs and brain.
Inspired by the beautiful Highland landscape, he pledged to scale Ben Nevis when he was well.
On July 14, 2010 – exactly a year after he was fighting for life and on his daughter Lina’s second birthday – Mr Hartson made his dream come true and completed the first BraveHart Challenge, with 70 supporters, raising thousands of pounds for his foundation.
The couple recently celebrated the birth of their third daughter, Paige Faith.
And this year, they are bringing more than 120 supporters to Fort William for the walk up the Ben – followed by the celebration to thank everyone in the area for their support.
Mr Hartson, who was also capped 51 times for Wales, said: “I’ve been coming up to this area for years now and the people are just brilliant. Everyone asks how I’m doing and local people have been so supportive.
“We decided that having a party seemed a fitting way to thank everyone for their support over the years, while raising funds for my foundation.
“I’ve been up there four times now – with a wonderful band of supporters each time – and I’ve enjoyed every minute, but this will be the last one. Next year we’re looking for an exciting new adventure.”
The BraveHart Bash will take place in the Nevis Centre at An Aird from 9pm, with music being provided by lively Scots dance band The Tatties.
Nevis Centre manager Kenny McLaughlin said: “We’re delighted to welcome John and Sarah and all the charity’s supporters to Fort William for what we’re sure will be a fantastic night.”