Two pensioners from Cheshire are preparing to walk part of one of the world's toughest trails to raise money for The Christie.

Jim Swainson from Hartford in Northwich, who was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2007, starts the challenge on the 7th September with his friend Gary Meadows from Audlem in Nantwich.

Their 22 day adventure consists of a 300 mile wilderness trek taking them along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia - covering half a marathon each day.

Jim aged 63 said; "It will certainly be no summer walk in the park! The terrain will be extremely difficult at times and the trek is the equivalent of climbing and descending Snowdon every day. The whole journey involves a total ascent and descent of 70,000 feet!

"When I heard the news I had leukaemia, I thought that's it - I'd better make sure my house is in order and prepare for the inevitable. And who knows, maybe that would have been the outcome without the good fortune of being referred to The Christie.

"I went through pretty intensive treatment but I'm now thankfully totally fully fit and in remission. This is my opportunity and my way of thanking The Christie. I hope it may also give a little inspiration to others that you can live a full and active life with and after cancer."

Gary, aged 65; added; "Another very good friend of mine is being treated at The Christie and is receiving exceptional care. The cause and reason for doing this challenge means so much to Jim and I.

"We hope to raise £15 per mile walked in the trek which would allow us to hand over £4,500 to The Christie.

"We're looking forward to this challenge, even though we know it'll be difficult at times! We'll be carrying all our equipment, which weighs over 40lb each, plus food for when we have to pass through areas of total isolation with only bears, coyotes and rattlesnakes for company!

"We'd appreciate anyone giving whatever they can by visiting www.justgiving.com/JimSwainson"

Sporting events officer at the Christie charity, Marco Giannini, said; "Jim and Gary are truly inspirational and they'll no doubt remember this adventure forever.

"They've organised absolutely everything themselves and have shown you can achieve just about anything if you put your mind to it. Money they raise will help pay for vital cancer research, high-tech equipment and extra patient services for patients now and in the future."

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