A former soldier will walk the equivalent of a marathon a day for a week to raise money for Children's Hospice South West (CHSW).

Matt Norman, who works as an operations lead at the charity's Charlton Farm, is taking part.

He plans to cover a 26-mile return trip from his home in Kingswood, Bristol to the children’s hospice.

This is one of eight challenges set by Mr Norman over several months to fundraise for CHSW.

Mr Norman's commitment to the charity began 13 years ago when a friend's daughter received care from CHSW.

It inspired him to undertake a charity bike ride in 2012 from his army base at Colchester to Bristol, raising £2,500.

Mr Norman said: "Thirteen years ago a friend of mine’s daughter was cared for by CHSW.

"I was in the forces at the time, but hearing about how they supported her inspired me to do something to support the charity."

He left the army in 2018 and joined CHSW in May the following year.

North Somerset Times: Matt Norman, who works as an operations lead at the charity's Charlton Farm, is taking part

Now, to prepare for his upcoming charity efforts, Mr Norman is training by walking with his wife Emma, cycling, and going to the gym.

He said: "I'm inspired everyday by the wonderful staff that make Charlton Farm such a special place for families of children and young people with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.

"The hospice allows them to absolutely make the most of what are often short but always precious lives."

Mr Norman will set out at 5am for his charity walks in September.

He continued: "Although I am a keen walker, I’ve never actually done a marathon – and this will be walking the equivalent of a marathon every day.

"It’s going to be a challenge, but one I’m ready for".

The former soldier will begin his string of charity events in April with a 50km Bridge 2 Bridge Walk.

Other activities will include partaking in the Bristol Half Marathon in May, the Three Peaks Challenge with a team from Ethical Power, CHSW’s Ride for Precious Lives, and the Great Weston Ride in July.

He also will do the 11/11 Remembrance Challenge in November, and participate in a 12-hour Fit-a-thon at a local gym.

Mr Norman hopes to raise £5,000 from his challenges and has already raised more than £600.

He added: "There’s never any shortage of any cake at Charlton Farm, and I have already booked some of the famous Charlton Farm flapjacks to help me power through."

Supporters of Mr Norman can donate to his cause by visiting his Just Giving Page at www.justgiving.com/page/matt-norman.