Edinburgh GP Dr Andrew Murray is an ultra marathon runner who ran 2,650 miles from John O’Groats to the Sahara desert in just 77 days. Along the way he was joined by over 1,000 people including fellow GPs, practice staff and patients.

Dr Murray will this week start a six week secondment with the Scottish government as part of his sports and exercise medicine training.

He will look at how GPs and other health professionals can promote physical exercise and healthy lifestyles in Scotland.

Dr Murray said: ‘I’m delighted to work in the Scottish government on what I think is the fundamental health challenge of our age. Becoming, or staying active is the single best thing you can do for your health. Research has shown that having a low level of fitness is equivalent in risk to having diabetes, smoking, and being obese combined.

‘The benefits of staying active are amazing, with evidence consistently showing those that are active live longer, function better, and have a much better quality of life. 

‘The Scottish government has been very proactive in moving this forward working to help Scots become and stay active. The key message is to find something you enjoy; it doesn’t have to be running. Walking, cycling, dancing, football are just as good, and 30 minutes five times a week is a good start.’