A COUNCIL worker is training to walk almost 200 miles for a cancer charity.

Mark Mixture, 50, will trek from St Bees, near the Lake District 192 miles across the country to Robin Hood’s Bay in the North York Moors National Park.

He will set off on May 12 and said it will take him about two weeks.

The fundraiser will be collecting in aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust.

The Thurrock Council roads worker said: “I have not got any children with cancer or anything like that but it seems like such a worthy cause.

“I am a big fan of the band, The Who and the band’s lead singer Roger Daltrey and he is a patron of the charity. I just thought it would be a good idea and it’s a good cause.

“I will be doing it alone and will be camping each night.

“I want to raise about £10,000 for the charity, but have never done this sort of thing before.

“I have been training with weights and walking.

“I am pretty much an overweight 50-year-old who smokes, so I am doing this to raise money – and lose some weight.

“My friends and family have been so supportive about the challenge.”

Mr Mixture, who lives in Wickford, said the furthest he has walked so far is 25 miles.

So, he said it is quite a daunting prospect.

The road worker said: “I am finding mental strength through the fact that it is such a worthwhile cause.

“Anything I go through while training or doing this challenge is nothing compared with what these kids are going through.

“If I don’t make the full amount, I will probably do some other fundraising events and challenges.”

He has been documenting his training journey via a Facebook page.

Mark has been posting updates and videos on his training and fundraising efforts.

He said he felt this was a good time to do something for a charity as he has reached a landmark 50.

He said he will be begging for support, money, sponsorship and donations to assist him on the journey.

He has set an online funding page and has already collected more than £1,500 in aid of the charity.

Teenage Cancer Trust is a cancer care and support charity that works to improve the cancer experience of young people.

To donate see www.justgiving.com and search Mark Mixture.