Scotland's hospitality industry has rallied behind The Drinks Trust Chair Neil Barker as he embarks on his SIXTREME challenge, with senior figures and colleagues joining him on the road for the first stages of his epic six-day fundraising run.

To mark the charity's 140th anniversary, Neil set off this morning from the Hendrick's Gin Palace in Girvan to begin six ultramarathons in six days, covering more than 170 miles across Scotland to raise vital funds and awareness for hospitality workers facing financial hardship, mental health and wellbeing challenges, and barriers to employment.

Throughout the week, supporters from some of the country’s best-known businesses – including Turnberry, Buzzworks, Tennent's, Inverarity Morton, Scottish Rugby, Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts and Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo - will run alongside Neil on different sections of the route, demonstrating the industry's united commitment to supporting hospitality workers across Scotland.

As he sets off to run approximately 28 miles each day, Neil said:

"I couldn't think of a better way to bring together colleagues, partners and friends from across the industry than through a unique endurance challenge that showcases some of Scotland's most beautiful scenery and iconic locations."

"I believe that hospitality is one of the greatest industries and is one that I have had the pleasure of working in for nearly 40 years but the people who power it need support. This SIXTREME challenge is about giving something back."

Beginning at the Hendrick's Gin Palace in Girvan, Neil will head north along the spectacular Ayrshire Coastal Path on the first two days of the challenge, taking in some of Scotland's most iconic coastal scenery, including Turnberry Lighthouse, before finishing day one in Troon and continuing on to Largs.

The route then joins the John Muir Way, travelling from Helensburgh through Strathblane and on to Falkirk, before an epic fifth day sees Neil run from Falkirk to Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh, where supporters from Scottish Rugby will welcome him as he nears the finish of the day's challenge.

The final leg will take Neil along the East Lothian coastline to North Berwick, where he will cross the finish line at Fringe by the Sea, bringing six ultramarathons in six days to a close after more than 170 miles on foot.

For more information or to support the campaign, visit here.

Luxury stays at Gleneagles and Turnberry, VIP sporting experiences and other exclusive prizes are also up for grabs as part of The Drinks Trust’s SIXTREME charity auction. The auction is open and will close at 23:59 on Monday 3rd August. More information can be found here.