Two ex-soldiers are planning to walk 62 miles across the Dorset countryside in aid of a local charity.

Mike Roberts, 46, from Bovington and Dave Roberts, 51,  from Essex, call themselves 'The Hairy Veterans' and they’ are planning to walk along the Dorset stretch of the Wessex Ridgeway in aid of the  #Willdoes charity.

The charity was setup in memory of William Paddy, a sporty, charismatic lad who grew up near Swanage, and who sadly passed away at just 14.

Will's mother, Lesley, set up the charity to help young people who may be finding life tough, struggling to cope with daily life.

READ: #WillDoesBus provides safe and fun space for youth

The veterans, who are not related, describe themselves as best friends and ‘brothers in arms’ having served together on operational duty in Iraq and Afghanistan in the Royal Tank Regiment.

Both are keen to advocate positive mental health as well as raise awareness of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Mike said: “We have remained best friends since leaving the Army and started our social media page initially as a 'bit of fun', and it allowed us to record our passion for outdoor adventure and history.

"However, something was missing so we decided to start raising money for worthy causes.

“The fact that the charity supports young people who are bottling up their emotions and are struggling to just get up in the morning just struck a chord with us.

"No young person should have to feel this way and, as a father to a teenager, I find it very worrying.”

READ: Dorset funeral director donates more than £4,500 to WillDoes charity

The duo will begin their trek in the village of Ashmore on Friday, August 23 and will pass through Cerne Abbas as well as taking in the stunning views of the Blackmore and Marshwood Vales.

Mike and Dave and have given themselves three days to complete the journey and hope to cross the finishing line in Lyme Regis, on Sunday, August 25.

Mike added: “#Willdoes has a big agenda, with big plans and a big heart but sadly, being a smaller charity, not a big following when it comes to support.

"I hope to change that by becoming an advocate for mental health and by advertising the charity and the amazing work that it does for young people living within Dorset communities.

“We hope to blog and talk about the history of the local area along the way.

"More importantly we want to spread the word about the great work that the charity does in memory of a very special local boy, William Paddy, who sadly died too early, aged only 14.”

The veterans are encouraging people to donate any amount, big or small, in advance of the hike but they are also hoping people will meet them along the way and donate a pound or two.

“Any donation will help “#Willdoes to continue the great work that they do in getting children to talk about mental health and supporting them when they feel that life has nothing left to offer.”

To donate to their cause visit www.justgiving.com/page/the-hairy-veterans-1708884136112