Pedal And Paddle Power For Warrior Challenge Pals

A triple-amputee veteran and a serving soldier will begin an epic challenge across the UK next month. 

Former Cpl Andy Reid and WO2 Glen Hughes are taking part in the Warrior Challenge, cycling and kayaking a combined 525 miles, while their support team will also run the route.

Andy was injured in Afghanistan in 2009, while Glen is recovering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 

During their journey from Lytham St Annes to Westminster, they are remembering six men killed in Afghanistan in 2012. 

Sgt Nigel Coupe, Cpl Jake Hartley, and Ptes Anthony Frampton, Christopher Kershaw, Daniel Wade and Daniel Wilford were killed when their Warrior vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device. Andy said:

"Out of respect for them - to keep their memory alive - we thought we'd do the Warrior Challenger and visit all the guys' headstones 

The second part of the pair’s route is known as the Everest of the canoeing and kayaking world.

It follows the same path as the Devizes to Westminster international canoe race, from the Kennet and Avon Canal to the River Thames. 

The Warrior Challenge is raising money for two forces charities - ABF: The Soldiers Charity, and Style for Soldiers.

This event has been more than a year in planning but Andy and Glen are hoping their efforts will raise tens of thousands of pounds as they pay their respects to the fallen.