A CANCER survivor will put his body through one of the toughest training tests in the world to raise money for the hospital where he was treated.

Malpas firefighter Rick Evans will train with the Royal Marines for a 380-mile trek from Edin burgh to London.

Rick, formerly a marine himself for 12 years, will follow the challenge two days later by running the London Marathon.

The 37-year-old, from Port-skewett, will be joined by colleague Chris Davies, also 37, from Cwmbran.

The super-fit pair hope to raise £100,000 for Velindra Hospital, in Whitchurch, Cardiff.

As part of their training, Rick and Chris will team up with the marines and troop across Dartmoor for 30 miles on January 28.

Rick, who beat testicular cancer, is looking forward to the challenge. He said: "We will be using the walk across Dartmoor as a training aid. "I want to give something back to the hospital and this is the only way I can repay them."

The men have been hitting the streets three times a week, clocking up between 20 and 25 miles each time.

Rick said: "We hope to do the walk from Edinburgh to London in 10 days, have a rest day on the Saturday, and then take part in the London Marathon the day after.

"We are trying to raise awareness of what we are going to do in Edinburgh and I am looking forward to it."

Dad-of-two Rick has the full support of his family, who hope to meet him in London.

Rick also wants to raise awareness of testicular cancer. He said: "I never thought I would be as fit as I am now in such a short period of time. Part of it is determination.

"I enjoy the training and find it good therapy. I have got itchy feet to start the walk."

Rick and Chris will leave Edinburgh Castle on Wednesday, April 7, and finish at Marble Arch, in London, on Friday, April 16.

The London Marathon will start at Blackheath on Sunday, April 18. For more information about the walk visit www. edinburghtolondonchallenge.co.uk.