A Hampshire firefighter is taking on a world record fundraising challenge.
On-call firefighter Richard Bowyer, from Sutton Scotney, is joining his fellow veterans for the Bootneck Yomp - an eight-day, continuous speed march from John O'Groats to Land's End.
The former Royal Marine will be taking on the challenge with 24 other veterans with the aim of raising at least £500,000 for a range of charities.
These include Combat Stress, The Royal Marines Charity, Papyrus (Teen Suicide), Alzheimer's Society and Cancer Research.
Each of the 25 veterans will run at least a marathon every day of the march, and each runner will carry 20lbs.
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Once completed, the march will set a world record.
Richard said: "I’m doing this not only to set myself a significant physical challenge and go for a world record attempt, but also to be part of a team achieving far more together than we ever could alone.
"It’s about brotherhood, purpose, and giving something back.
"One of the reasons I joined the fire service was for the sense of belonging and service, something I struggled to replicate after the Royal Marines.
"We’re raising money for people fighting cancer, dementia, and mental health challenges.
"If we can make just one person’s life better, then we’ve done well."
Setting off on Saturday, November 1, they will be joined by fellow veteran Royal Marine Commandos, and throughout will be supported by a team managing transport and logistics.
The Bootnecks taking part have served in a range of operational deployments and exercises across the globe, yet now as civilians have volunteered their time and energy to take on this challenge.
Recently, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service was recognised for its commitment to the armed forces, having been awarded a silver award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
A new armed forces focused network group has also been set up across the organisation.
FireFORCES aims to bring together and streamline all strands of work within HIWFRS involving armed forces communities both internally within the service, as well as in communities.
You can support Richard and his fellow Bootnecks by donating to their challenge on their JustGiving page.
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