Senior executives are raising money to support the charity’s residential services.

Senior executives from Royal Blind will spend the coming weeks in exercise gear as they undertake challenges to raise funds for the charity.

Chief executive Mark O’Donnell will row 26,000 strokes on his home rowing machine, while director of corporate services Stephen Coulter will run the equivalent of a marathon over 10 days.

All funds raised will be used to support Royal Blind’s five residential services which remain fully operation during the coronavirus pandemic.

The activities are part of the national 2.6 Challenge, which encourages people around the UK to undertake activities to fundraise for their favourite charity.

Mr O’Donnell said he had set himself an ambitious target. He said: “From Sunday, I’ll be rowing 26,000 strokes on my indoor rowing machine, over 26 days. They say 1,000 strokes is equal to travelling about two kilometres on the water, so overall, 26,000 strokes is like rowing from Leith to Kirkcaldy.

“All our staff at Royal Blind, especially our nursing and care teams, have been going that extra mile to care for all the residents across our five services during this pandemic.

“That knowledge will be urging me on during this challenge.”

Mr Coulter, who will run 2.6 miles a day for ten days, said he was grateful for the support Royal Blind had received during the pandemic.

He said: “It has been a challenging few weeks. However, thanks to those who have donated funds, sent food to our key workers, donated hand sanitisers and made face shields for our key workers, we have been able to ensure our residents in our care homes are receiving the best care possible.”

Mr O’Donnell added: “Our key workers are inspired by the huge outpouring of public goodwill and support that they are receiving.

“We know Covid-19 has put a huge strain on many families. But if you would like to donate to help with our work at this vital time, we would be exceptionally grateful.”

Anyone wishing to support Mark and Stephen’s challenge can donate via their JustGiving page.