TWO friends will trek through the Western Front this year to mark 100 years since the end of the First World War.

David Parkinson, of Over Wallop, and George Ashworth, of Charlton-All-Saints will be walking through battlefield sites in France and Belgium to raise money for the Royal British Legion.

The pair were inspired to make the trip after attending a rugby match in Twickenham last Remembrance Day.

George said: “I’ll be 40 this year and I was looking for something to do that was a bit of a challenge. When David mentioned the walk I thought, ‘it’s worthwhile and a chance to go and see it all’. I think everyone should go to see it.”

David agreed, adding: “It should be the national curriculum that everybody goes to get an idea about the sacrifices those men made.”

The trip will be poignant for both men, who will be walking with a group of about 30 people from across the UK.

“I had three great-grandfathers who survived the First World War, and it’s something I’ve always held close to my heart,” David said.

And for George it has sparked an interest in his family history. He said: “Both of my grandfathers served in the Second World War. This might be an opportunity to find out more, because I know I have got great-grandparents who did serve in the First World War, but I don’t know where.”

The pair will lay a wreath at Thiepval’s Memorial to the Missing of the Somme, on behalf of Salisbury residents, which will be a tribute to soldiers who died in all conflicts.

David and George are set to start their training schedule at the end of the month, ahead of the trip in September, where they will walk about 13 miles per day for four days.

They have currently raised just under £600 for the Royal British Legion, but hope to reach a total of £3,000.

George said: “It would be nice to have a bit of support from the people of Salisbury. Any donations are gratefully received.”

Visit justgiving.com/fundraising/david-parkinson27