TWO former soldiers will roll back the years when they set-off on a 110-mile yomp in aid of injured colleagues.

Ray Fendley and Lance James aim to complete the trek along the Cleveland Way in only six days with 35lb bags on their backs.

The two men, both 50, plan to complete the journey, from Helmsley to Filey, in North Yorkshire, in six days.

They hope to raise £1,000 for Help for Heroes, supporting injured armed forces personnel and their families.

Mr Fendley, of Walcher Road, in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, said: “When I was in the Falklands, we would do 25 miles with 65lb on our backs, but I’ve been out of the Army since 2005 so I haven’t done anything like this for a good few years.

“We are looking forward to it. There is that nervy apprehension, but that’ll go when we have got the first day out of the way.”

Mr James, of Langdale Road, Darlington, said: “I’ve been out [of the Army] for 30 years, but I’ve still got friends in the services and ex-colleagues who have been injured.

“There’s only so much the Government can do, so we see Help for Heroes as an extremely worthy cause.”

The two men visited Kitt Pongo and the Hogman army surplus store, in Northgate, Darlington, yesterday, to collect rations and equipment donated for the trip.

They were joined by Guardsman David Ashton, 23, who is working at the Army Careers Information Office, in Darlington.

Gdsm Ashton has seen at first-hand the work of Help for Heroes, having spent 12 weeks in Headley Court Military Hospital, in London, last year, while recovering from an injury.

He said: “There were a lot of injured soldiers back from Iraq and Afghanistan, and Help for Heroes basically funds the majority of that.

“What I saw was shocking, but also inspirational. Help for Heroes gives people a certain degree of quality of life.”

To sponsor the pair, who will set off on Monday, contact Mr Fendley on 07747- 651166. Alternatively, call the shop on 01325-355366 or visit during opening hours.