Exeter Veteran Paul Vice walks 232 miles for FORCE Cancer Charity Challenge

An Exeter veteran who survived catastrophic injuries in Afghanistan is preparing to walk more than 230 miles to raise money for FORCE Cancer Charity.

Former Royal Marine Corporal Paul Vice, 43, will set off from FORCE’s Support and Information Centre in Exeter on Wednesday 24 September and trek unsupported to Tatton Park in Cheshire.

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He aims to complete the journey in 10 days before finishing with a 300ft bungee jump on Saturday 4 October.

Paul, a father-of-four, lost his left leg following an improvised explosive device blast in Helmand Province in 2011 that left him with multiple life-changing injuries.

Despite being awarded the Military Cross for gallantry and later winning gold at the Invictus Games, he has continued to push his limits through endurance challenges.

This year, he already raised £5,000 for FORCE by completing the Three Peaks Challenge. Now he hopes to exceed that total by tackling what he describes as his hardest mission yet.

Paul said: "I wear my disability well but it's not easy walking with a prosthetic leg. I want to make this challenge as hard as I can to engage more people with it. It won't be easy but that's nothing compared to what the people using FORCE are dealing with."

The route will take him through Taunton, Bristol, Hereford, Crewe and several other towns and cities. Carrying only emergency rations, Paul plans to rely on the hospitality of strangers and support from veterans along the way.

FORCE, based in Exeter, provides free support for people across Devon affected by cancer. The charity relies entirely on donations, grants and fundraising to continue its services.

Paul said he was inspired by a close friend who has twice been treated for bowel cancer: "Just because my mate is better doesn't mean others are. If you can help, you should and I'm in the fortunate position that I can."

He hopes members of the public will walk sections of the route with him or offer food and shelter. Donations can be made via his fundraising page: justgiving.com/page/paul-vice-mc .