A former soldier who had to learn to walk again is preparing to take a daunting challenge to benefit those who helped him rebuild his life.

Del Sullivan, from Sprowston, served with the Army in Afghanistan and Iraq but suffered a major back injury in an explosion in 2005.

The long road to recovery has seen the 40-year-old reach the point where he has committed to trekking 10 marathons in 10 days.

Del said: “My reasons for undertaking this challenge are very simple; it’s to give people from all walks of life not only a second or third chance in life but for some, a first chance, like myself, who needed a few chances in life.”

Eastern Daily Press: Del Sullivan, pictured at Barnham Broom Golf Club in 2019, where an On Course Foundation event was heldDel Sullivan, pictured at Barnham Broom Golf Club in 2019, where an On Course Foundation event was held (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

Since the life-changing injury, Del has battled with his physical and mental health.

He now dedicates his time to helping others through his job at The Shaw Trust, a charity that helps unemployed people gain long-term work opportunities.

Del had 30pc of his spine replaced by metal cages and bolts during multiple surgeries and was later helped by the On Course Foundation and local charity the Community Sports Foundation (CSF) during his recovery.

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The On Course Foundation supports injured and sick service personnel and veterans through golf events, one of which Del was involved in at Barnham Broom Golf Club in 2019.

Eastern Daily Press: Del Sullivan with friends supporting his training for his 260-mile charity trekDel Sullivan with friends supporting his training for his 260-mile charity trek (Image: Submitted)

Del will walk the Norwich ring road twice a day for 10 days, starting and finishing the 260-mile trek at Carrow Road, between April 18 and April 27.

He said: “Training has been exhausting – but I know I’ll get it done no matter what.

DONATE: Support Del's 260-mile trek

“I’ve already gone through four pairs of trainers!

Eastern Daily Press: Del Sullivan, centre, will start and finish his 260-mile trek for charity at Carrow RoadDel Sullivan, centre, will start and finish his 260-mile trek for charity at Carrow Road (Image: Submitted)

“Sometimes I think, is it all worth it? But, then I speak to the amazing charities I work with and realise, it’s absolutely worth it to help them.”

Del has so far raised almost £1,000 of his £10,000 target on his JustGiving page.