Former Scotland Rugby captain Mike Biggar is one step closer to raising £75,000 thanks to a funding boost from a leading regional housebuilder.

Mike, 70, from Malmesbury, has limited mobility after a near fatal car crash in 1992 and was inspired by Captain Tom Moore to walk to raise money for the NHS.

He was awarded the money by Persimmon Homes Wessex after applying to the firm’s Community Champions scheme.

The initiative gives away up to £2,000 every month to local good causes.

Mr Biggar finds it extremely difficult to walk and uses a wheelchair, after suffering extreme brain damage in the crash.

Persimmon’s £1,000 donation has helped Mr Biggar raise more than £74,000, and his efforts to raise funds have hit the headlines.

His wife, Ali, said: “It’s lovely to have the support of Persimmon Homes Wessex.

“Walking just three or four steps a day is a huge effort for him, so we’re proud of him trying to accomplish this.

“He is now onto his next goal and hopes to reach 2,000 steps and raise £100k.”

Mike has walked more than 1,000 steps and continues to raise funds for the NHS Charities Together.

His family and friends have also been out raising funds, with his godson Ben completing a sponsored run to raise awareness and funds.

Pauline Fletcher, sales and marketing director for Persimmon Homes Wessex, said: “It has been fantastic to see the community out supporting Mike’s fundraising efforts.

“We were so inspired by his story and honoured to be able to support him and the NHS through our Community Champions initiative.”