A BOLTON man is set to take on an epic charity challenge to raise funds for a new activities minibus.

Eddie Birchall has volunteered at the Transforming Lives Group (TLG) for around a year.

The group is a support group for people with mental health or any other underlying issues.The group say they are “open to anyone who may be struggling with any day-to-day issues.”

Help and support is provided through a number of physical activities,including walking football, boxing, fishing and hiking, as well as a number of other football activities.

Several members will be doing a sponsored bike ride from the University to Bolton stadium to Blackpool Tower on Sunday, May 9.

Any funds raised will be going towards activities for the group.

However, Eddie is going solo for his challenge and is raising money directly for a new minibus to transport members to the group’s activities.

Eddie will be running from Newbury Community Centre to the tower - which could take him up to eight hours.

The fastest route by car would take about 50 minutes and covers around 43 miles, while Eddie’s route will see him run just shy of 50.

However, Eddie, 57, is keen to take on the running challenge.

He said: “I joined the group about 12 months ago to help with various things there were doing. They really are a fantastic group.

“They really like to help push outdoor activities and we have done things like camping and walks and other great things like that.

“I have realised over the last few months that they need a bit more money for things so I set up the fundraiser to try and raise some.”

Eddie added that he has completed various charity challenges and activities over the years, including a coast-to-coast walk as well as a Land’s End - John O'Groats trek.

He said: “There is already quite a lot of money raised so we are well on our way there. We have already spoken about what sort of minibus we would get.

“I am excited and looking forward to it. I am hoping to get 30 miles done in the morning and then the other 17 or so done later on.”