A FORMER rugby star will put injured army personnel through their paces to get them prepared for a ten-day charity challenge.
A team of 12 former servicemen from Headley Court will embark on a 1,283-mile journey across the UK on May 22 and will receive fitness training from Colin Charvis.
The former Wales captain will train the team for several weeks leading up to the event as they look to raise more than £100,000 for Help for Heroes, which raises money to support members of the armed forces wounded on active duty.
The back row stalwart thanked security company G4S, who provided the team with a cheque for £10,000 to get them started in their fundraising goal.
"Without this donation the team would not be able to attempt this incredible challenge, which will be a mammoth test of physical and mental toughness," he said.
"The team will average more than 100 miles per day and their journey will be that little bit easier with the G4S guys in support."
He continued: "It's going to be tough for the guys but I'll be doing my best to get them ready. I can't wait to be part of this amazing challenge."
He added: "The quest has been made even more remarkable given that the team includes several amputees, injured while on active service in Afghanistan."
The expedition will include seven current and former soldier patients of Headley Court.
Beginning on May 22, the team will cycle out from John O'Groats on their journey to Lands End, scaling the highest peaks in Britain before rowing across the Irish Sea twice.
The challenge is due to reach its finale with a mass skydive into Swansea on May 31 by which time the team hope to have raised over £100,000 for the charity.
Patrick Toyne-Sewell, G4S director, said: "We have always been proud to support our armed services and we are delighted to be able to support this fantastic event.
"Help for Heroes is a fantastic cause and I wish the team every success in what will be an incredibly tough challenge."
