MENINGITIS Trust’s community fundraiser David Wood will embark on the first of his three challenges of the year, a 55 mile walk, in a bid to raise awareness and funds for the charity.

The former Bishop Wordsworth’s School pupil ran four marathons in 2006, and was part of the trust team that trekked the Great Wall of China last August.

This year he is aiming to complete a 55-mile walk around Manchester, the Three Peaks Challenge, and the Chicago Marathon - a total distance greater than his previous four marathons.

He said: “I really enjoy fundraising, first getting involved with the charity committee at Bishop’s, and then went on to raise lots of money for various charities whilst at the University of Nottingham. After I graduated, I decided to become a professional fundraiser. Since working at the Trust, I have also spent a lot of my spare time fundraising, which is really good for our supporters, as I can understand what it’s like when embarking on these challenges”

Mr Wood is paying for all of the costs of the trips, so all the money raised will go direct to the Meningitis Trust, and it’s good work.

He is hoping that this year’s fundraising efforts will bring the total he has raised for the trust in the past three and a half years to £10,000.

To sponsor him visit www.justgiving.com/thecontinuingadventuresofdavidwood.