Two West Cumbrian veterans will walk 22 miles next weekend to highlight the daily struggle of many people who left the military.

Liam Galloway, who served in the 1st Battalion of The Royal Anglian Regiment for 10 years, and Wayne Akehurst, who was in the 12th Regiment Royal Artillery, will walk from Maryport to Whitehaven through surrounding towns and villages to raise money and awareness for Combat Stress, a mental health charity for veterans.

The duo, both of Maryport, have recruited more than 30 volunteers to join them already and hope it will open more eyes to the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Liam said: "The Government doesn't really recognise stress or PTSD and after the 22 push-up challenge took off on social media, Wayne came up with the idea of a 22-mile walk.

"I think people need to be more aware of it because it affects people in different ways and people just think 'he's a bit psycho' without understanding.

"I was diagnosed with hypervigilance, which I think most people get who have been in a combat situation.

"It can take servicemen up to 13 years before they actually realise they've got PTSD.

"It's pretty close to our hearts because it changes people's lives and it's not just them, it's their families as well."

The group will meet at Market Square in Maryport at 8am next Sunday wearing T-shirts and carrying banners and buckets then walk to Flimby.

They will continue to Workington via Seaton, where they will walk around the town centre before passing through Salterbeck, Harrington, Distington and Parton to finish at Whitehaven.

Combat Stress provides treatment and support services which Liam says the NHS do not for PTSD sufferers.

He added: "I think it's something that everybody wants to see something done about.

"I didn't expect so many people to want to do it but although there are a few ex-servicemen taking part with us there are also some civilians and families of people affected.

"Even if people just want to join us for a section that would be a big help."

For more information, contact Liam or Wayne on Facebook.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/liamgalloway