FUNDRAISER and adventurer Neil Wheeler is determined not to let his epilepsy rule his life so is preparing for a 17 day challenge that most people would think unachievable.

While many would baulk at the idea of walking from John O'Groats to Lands End Mr Wheeler, 34, from Collingbourne Ducis, near Marlborough, is to run the length of the country to raise money for Julia's House.

He expects to cover between 40 and 60 miles a day which on some will mean him completing more than two marathons and raise around £2,500.

He said: "I wanted a new challenge and this seemed like a good idea. I have just started training seriously and I hope by the time I set off in March I will be very fit."

Earlier this year Mr Wheeler was left stranded, starving and worrying he would suffer and epileptic fit at the airport after a trek to Everest base camp ended in a nightmare.

His trip back from Kathmandu was beset with technical problems and he says airline Jet Airways failed to provide any food when the flight had to made an unscheduled stop in Mumbai for technical reasons. He was worried that the lack of food would trigger an epilepsy seizure but after a doctor intervened he was finally given something to eat.

But that has not put him off a life of adventure and will set out on March 24 for his 17 day run.

Julia's House Wiltshire fundraising manager Ian Wadley said: "I think what Neil has set out to do is amazing. Just thinking about walking that far would be amazing but to run it is incredible. We are very grateful to him for undertaking this challenge for Julia's House.

Mr Wheeler is also holding a fundraising evening for Julia's House at Swindon Greyhounds, Abbey Stadium at Blunsdon on November 12. Tickets cost £6 and more information is available by ringing 07875898995 or by email to neil.wheeler7@hotmail.co.uk or to find out more about his fundraising go to https://www.facebook.com/NEILJOGLE/