AN 80-year-old ex-soldier planning a gruelling 17-mile charity walk including a 5,000 foot ascent is looking for someone to join him on training walks in preparation for his challenge next March.

Former sergeant major, Ian Waddell is no stranger to walking; he has trekked across the Sahara, undertaken a 2,000 mile walk around England and ran 100 miles in two days at the age of 69 to raise money for war veterans.

Now however, while the desire to get out among the hills remains, severe osteoarthritis in both feet and recent knee and hip replacements mean that Ian has been advised to walk in company as a precaution in case of injury.

Until now his only constant companion has been Jasper the Jack Russell but in an effort to maintain his fitness levels ready for the challenge, Ian needs to get out on the trail regularly.

‘I am seeking someone who enjoys walking - it will be more of an amble than a route march, just to get out and get some miles under the belt,’ explains Ian, adding, ‘It will be more of a social thing - there might even be lunch involved.’

Ian will be raising funds for the charity Combat Stress, who help former servicemen and women deal with trauma-related mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Ian stated, ‘Funds are vital for the charity to carry on the important work they are doing for our ex servicemen and women. I have raised many thousands over the years for charities including BLESMA, the military charity for limbless veterans and Combat Stress.

Ian will be undertaking the trek on crutches and states, ‘The most painful parts for me are the descents, but doctors have advised the effort will make little difference to my condition so I’m going for it.’

Anyone interested in accompanying Ian on his training walks or donating to his fundraising can contact him by email at [email protected].