A GROUP of comics are hoping to raise more than laughs by tackling an 84 mile trek along Hadrian’s Wall in aid of Alzheimer’s Research.

The Ha Ha Hadrian’s Wall Walk, which is now in its third year, begins on May 21 and will see the group perform free stand-up gigs along the route.

Hartlepool funnyman Nick Banks came up with the challenge after first completing the walk when he was a soldier in the army.

He will be joined by more than a dozen comedians including Seymour Mac, Patrick Monahan, John Cooper, Nina Smith, Matthew Fong, Frank Garrity and Tim Strange.

The group will walk about 11 miles a day and are to perform shows at Heddon-on-the Wall, Chollerton, Hexham, Greenhead and Carlisle, with bucket collections being held at each.

Mr Banks said: “It’s a big challenge and it can be tough, but everyone is always in good spirits when we get together and with so many comedians in one place it should be a good laugh.

“A lot of the places we’re planning shows don’t often get live comedy coming through, so it’s a chance to bring people something different.”

The comic said the aim was to raise as much as possible – the first two walks raised £10,000 for charity.

Claire Priestwood, regional fundraising officer at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “We couldn’t be more grateful to Nick and his friends for their support and we’ll be wishing them well as they set off on their journey.”

To sponsor the group visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/nicholasbanks1