TWO veterans plan to make history by doing an ultra duathlon from Sunderland to Whitehaven in the quickest time to raise money and awarness for a CIC.
Chris Batty, from Allendale, and Derek Gamblin, who lives in Dubai, will tackle the 261-mile c2c route journey to raise money for Space North East.
The pair will start on June 22 and run from Roker Pier, Sunderland, to Whitehaven, cycling back as fast as possible. They hope this will give others something to aim for in the future.
The friends chose Space North East as they provide support to men in the North East who are suffering from depression, loneliness and anxiety.
Chris said about the challenge: "Derek came up with the challenge around Christmas time, and I agreed, thinking it was only to do the cycling, but I started to rethink it when he said running there then cycling back.
"There is no turning back now, and it is great group that helps men become less isolated. I know from experience that when you come out of the army, you feel worthless, as it's a big chance to get used to everything again.
"There is no commitment to it, no need to talk - but it helps, and I speak from experience.
"I had a car crash two years ago then I had neck surgery last July where I was told that it might be possible that I would not be able to walk or speak again.
"I am looking forward to the event, and I have been working hard every day to ensure we can achieve our goal.
"We hope to see a lot of people who will see us off and welcome us back!
"We are also hoping for some sponsors and have a great deal for advertising."
One person supporting the pair is Terry Christie from the Manor House Inn in Haltwhistle.
He said: "I have had a few friends who suffer from depression. According to official statistics, North East is one of the worst places for suicide.
"We are all behind them.
"I am donating £600 which will also add to the pair getting £250 from the Duke of Connaught lodge No 3892 in the province of Northumberland and we will increase that to a minimum of £1000 collectively at our next meeting and hopefully increase that amount through various fundraisers to £3,000."
To donate please go to https://gofund.me/57356be0
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