Comedian Bill Bailey is donning a pair of hiking boots and trekking 87 miles across The Ridgeway to raise money for Stand Up To Cancer.

Joining him along the way will be some familiar faces including Jo Brand, Lee Mack, Kevin Eldon and Martin Trenaman.

The wildlife lover and West Country boy has decided to walk the historic trek back to front, adding an extra challenge onto the event.

The comic said: “Most people walk it West to East because the wind is at your back, but I say ‘nah’! I’m a rebel – going maverick. I’m going rogue for Stand Up To Cancer and going the other way.

“Plus if I’m walking into the wind, my hair does that thing like a dog hanging out of the car window – I look better, much cooler!

“I love the route. It’s just stunning”

The band of merry travellers are due to reach Overton Hill in Overton on July 28 after taking six days to travel from their starting point in Ivinghoe Beacon, Bedfordshire.

Ice baths, pub grub and lots of sing songs will all be in high supply as Bill takes on the elements, covering 15 miles each day.

The ancient trail is England’s oldest road, which runs around the Marlborough Downs and onto Ogbourne St George.

The funny man, known for his musical comedy shows and appearances on shows such as QI, created the mission after he walked the 87 mile trek for his 50th birthday and raised £12,000.

Walking in memory of his late mum Madryn, who died of cancer in 2005 aged 74, Bill hopes to raise even more money this summer.

Bill is expected to reach his finish point in Overton near Marlborough, on Saturday afternoon.