Ross-shire crofter's big heart on the hill effort goes a long way for Highland Hospice as Knockfarrel walk total hits £6000

A BIG-HEARTED Ross-shire crofter’s romantic gesture to the love of his life has boosted the funds of Highland Hospice by over £6000.

Neil MacDonald (81) first created ‘The Heart on the Hill’ around 15 years ago on the hillside at Knockfarrel opposite his croft to express his love for his wife Mina.

Creating the heart, carefully flattened out in bracken, was a real labour of love and its origins remained a closely guarded secret for years, delighting locals and giving rise to many tall tales.

Mr MacDonald meanwhile decided to walk loops of the significantly sized heart earlier this year to raise funds for Highland Hospice. The gesture sparked massive support from well-wishers, some of whom joined him on some of his daily trips.

His daughter Jaimie said: “Neil is delighted with the total number of heart loops he walked and is so grateful to everyone who supported him during the challenge. He would like to say a heartfelt thank you to his family, friends, neighbours, his walking and organising crew and everyone who donated.”

Katie Gibb at Highland Hospice said: “This is a true reflection of the passion of one man and the high regard he is held in.”

PICTURES: Romantic crofter's big-hearted gesture boosts hospice

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