It is a case of mind over miles for Andy Sloan from Sheringham, who is attempting to ride 250 miles from north Norfolk to North Shields for a mental health charity supporting the armed forces.

Mr Sloan's bike ride will see him raise money and awareness for Walking with the Wounded – a national charity, headquartered in north Norfolk, which provides mental health support to veterans and their families.

There are more than 40,000 veterans living in north Norfolk.

Mr Sloan's journey will begin at Walking with the Wounded’s head offices in Stody, before taking him on a 250-mile route all the way to the charity’s North East offices in North Shields.

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North Norfolk News: Andy Sloan from Sheringham will be biking 250 miles for charity

Mr Sloan, who has worked at the charity for eight years, said: “I’m expecting it to be a challenge but I’m doing it for all the men and woman in the armed forces who put themselves forward to protect us - so a bit of suffering on a bike is the least I can do. 

“I’m not a club cyclist, but I bike pretty regularly.

"I’ve biked 120 miles before, so this will be the furthest I’ve gone - but it’s about redefining my personal limits and the discovering strength which comes from that.

“I want to inspire and encourage others to attempt to raise money for charity on Armed Forces Day (June 24). It’s not about going fast or slow but further than I’ve ever gone before.”

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Andy was inspired by the story of a veteran referred to the charity who struggled with his mental health after leaving the army, where he served in Afghanistan. 

Through the support of the charity, the man was able to turn his life around and he is now in a new job and able to support his family.

Every £86 donated will fund a mental health session for a veteran in need of support. 

To donate, visit the 'Andy Sloan The Longest Day 2023' Give Penny donations page.