Formby soldier walked 201 miles for Macmillan Cancer Support

Antonio Valente, who serves in the Royal Navy Reserves, walked from London to Liverpool.

A Formby soldier has walked from London to Liverpool, to raise money for people affected by cancer.

Antonio Valente, 34, embarked on the colossal charity expedition alongside his Dean Martin, 21, to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Antonio lost both his grandparents to cancer, and over the Christmas period last year, lost close friend, Dave Williams. He said: "Everybody knows someone whom has sadly passed away or been affected by cancer."

His colleague and walking companion, Dean, was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 7.

Antonio added: "Dean was told he wouldn't pull through, and now he's one of the most amazing soldiers I know.

"Without him, there's no way I would have been able to complete the mammoth challenge."

The pair, who both serve in the Royal Navy Reserves, carried all their equipment in military Bergens as they covered a total distance of 201 miles, starting at 6.30am in London on Saturday August 1.

Dean and Antonio at Buckingham Palace

They covered an average of 33 miles a day, setting up camps most nights. While crossing the Mersey via ferry the following morning, the captain heard what they had achieved, and invited them up to the bridge to take control of the ferry.

Finally, they walked to St George's Hall and saluted the cenotaph before heading triumphantly for HMS Eaglet via Liverpool One.

Dean spoke of the phenomenal support the duo have received. He said: "We truly could not have got through this without your amazing support and we both thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

"It doesn't matter what we raise even if it's only £100 - that's £100 more for Macmillan, so please no matter how small, please donate to this amazing organisation.''

For more information, or to make a donation, click here

As of today they have raised £1,423.04 of £5,000.00 target

Two amazing men, well done!

Story and Photo Source: Southport Visiter