They may be preparing for blood, sweat and tears but a group of former marines welcomed a touch of glamour as TV star Lorraine Kelly launched their arduous charity challenge.
The Broughty Ferry resident met the 21 participants to launch the Commando Challenge, which will see them kayak, raft, cycle, run and march across Tayside in less than 24 hours.
Helping to raise £1 million for Commando 999 a charity formed to help Royal Marines injured in Afghanistan the ex-marines will start on the shores of Loch Tay on May 20 and undertake the gruelling 100-mile journey to the Montrose war memorial.
With the participants serving in the emergency services now their military careers are over, Mrs Kelly praised them for helping former colleagues.
At the Dundee Detachment of the Royal Marines Reserve, she said, “I’ve done a few tough challenges but nothing comes close to what these guys are attempting.
“If they manage it they will have earned every penny.
“These men are true heroes and deserve all the support we can give them.
“They’ve bravely served their country and are now helping save lives on the streets. They’re amazing.”
The oldest participant Ally Taylor (62) served in the Royal Marines in the 1970s.
He said, “The challenge demonstrates the underlying ethos of once a marine, always a marine.
“It will be tough but nothing compared to the challenges faced by injured colleagues rebuilding their lives.”
Anyone wishing to donate can do so at www.bmycharity.com/transtaysidechallenge.