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Last Christmas, 75-year-old David Ellis was set a challenge by his family – to walk 874 miles throughout 2021.

David, a retired solicitor and keen walker from Pontllanfraith, accepted the challenge – and on July 13 he successfully completed the distance – the equivalent of Land’s End to John O’Groats – a full six months ahead of schedule.

David began the virtual journey across the UK on January 1 and has battled the elements throughout. On the final day of his challenge though, the sun was shining bright as friends and colleagues from the Rotary Club of Blackwood joined him at Pen y fan Pond.

David decided to use the walk to raise money for the new breast care unit at Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr, as well as to support local youth groups so they can get back up and running after the coronavirus pandemic.

So far, he has raised just under £3,500 .

David told Caerphilly Observer: “I’ve been out every day, usually in the mornings.

“Most weeks I’ve done over 30 miles – the most I’ve done in one week was 37 miles. If you go out every day then the miles do add up.”

When David’s children set him the challenge, he saw it as an opportunity for the Rotary Club to raise money.

He chose the breast care unit because a few of the wives of rotary club members were already involved in the fundraising efforts for the unit.

To make a donation to David’s fundraiser, visit Obv.sr/david874