SCIAF head Alistair Dutton visited Shotts Prison to talk about the charity’s work.

A charity’s director has met inmates at a Scots prison as he asks people to “go the extra mile” to fight poverty and injustice.

Alistair Dutton, head of the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF), visited Shotts prison at the start of a 200-mile bike journey around the country.

During the week-long tour, he will meet with supporters across Scotland to raise awareness of the problems millions of people face in poor countries due to hunger, poverty, war, natural disasters and injustice.

He will also share his experiences of working in some of the poorest and most troubled countries in the world, including Ethiopia, Colombia, Cambodia and India.

In this Year of Mercy, Pope Francis has reminded us of the importance of the works of mercy, which include visiting those in prison.

Speaking ahead of his prison visit, Dutton said: “In this Year of Mercy, Pope Francis has reminded us of the importance of the works of mercy, which include visiting those in prison.

“While I’m with them I’d like to discuss how conflict, inequality and poverty prevent people flourishing and living their lives to the full, both in Scotland and overseas, and exploring in what ways they can go the extra mile to support SCIAF’s work.

“I’ll also be explaining how SCIAF’s work helps people enjoy sustainable jobs in peaceful and just communities, and have the skills and education they need.”

Later in the week, Dutton will deliver 6,000 signed cards to the Scottish Government demanding it combats poverty and protects the environment. He will also take part in a special five-a-side football tournament and speak on a hospital radio station.

The event finishes with a mass at St Margaret’s Memorial Church in Dunfermline.