A Keighley man plans to complete a gruelling overnight trek to help injured British soldiers and their families in a cause close to his heart.

Colin Powell, 30, has signed up to be part of the Trans-Pennine Challenge, which will see him walk and jog more than 62 miles from Manchester to Sheffield.

He said: “I’m competing to raise money for the charity Help for Heroes, with a minimum target of £400. This charity is close to my heart as my grandfather was a Second World War veteran, so I would like to support the cause.

“This is a national event with about 1,500 participants.

Mr Powell is from Braithwaite and was a pupil at Oakbank School in Keighley. He is a Marks & Spencer store manager and now lives in York, though still has many friends and family members in Keighley.

He said: “I play football and do a bit of swimming but I wouldn’t say I’m an athlete. I’ve never done anything like this before.

“My friends and family think I’m a little bit crazy, but they’re really supportive. I’m hoping to be able to double my minimum fundraising target.

“They haven’t finalised the course yet, but ultra marathon runners can finish it in 15 hours. People who walk it take 30 hours. I’m aiming to jog and walk so hope to do it in about 20 hours.”

Visit justgiving.com/Cpbigstuff to sponsor Mr Powell for the challenge, which takes place on June 22 and 23.