VETERANS from across the country are preparing to battle it out in a series of challenges to test fitness, skill and endurance.

Help for Heroes recovery centre, Phoenix House, in Catterick Garrison, is hosting the fourth annual Phoenix Games between teams of wounded, injured and sick veterans and service personnel over four days of events, starting on Monday, July 4.

Teams from Phoenix House will compete against counterparts from Help for Heroes centres Tedworth House in Wiltshire, Plymouth’s Parker VC House and Chavasse VC House in Colchester.

They are being put through their paces in a variety of activities, including raft building, wheelchair rugby, archery and swimming.

Activities manager Rob Hood said new events this year include golf and bowls, and it is the first time the Plymouth centre has been involved.

"It is going to be fantastic opportunity for veterans from around the country to get together, build new bonds and enjoy the competition – something they might not have done for a while."

Before the competition gets underway on Monday, as many as the Phoenix Games participants and staff members as possible are going to join veteran Ben Mead doing 22 press ups as he continues his participation the campaign to highlight the number of veterans who commit suicide, which has gone viral.

The 22 Push Up Challenge has taken the internet by storm as soldiers from around the country have filmed themselves doing the challenge which originated in the US after figures revealed 22 US veterans take their own lives every day.

On Tuesday, Coronation Street favourite Sean Tully, played by Antony Cotton – a big supporter of Help for Heroes – is acting as quizmaster for an evening event.

Taking part in sport has many psychological benefits for the participants, according to Phoenix House’s supported activities co-ordinator Hilary Conway.

“It’s all about taking part as a team in a competition and it’s something a lot of people have not done for a long time,” she said.

“It’s a real confidence booster. We have people taking part with physical injuries, such as spinal and back injuries, as well as people with severe mental health injuries, such as PTSD, depression and anxiety.”

The Phoenix Games will culminate with a gala dinner on Thursday, where the winning team will be presented with the trophy.