AN EPIC 335-mile walk that passed through the region has raised over £28,000 for wounded and homeless veterans.

A duo of former Coldstream Guards began their journey from Coldstream to London at the start of December in a bid to reach the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral in time for Christmas carolling.

Ex-major Harry Bucknall and his comrade, former Sergeant Jock Davis passed through Newton Aycliffe and Darlington in the early stages of their trek on December 3, when £7,000 had been raised.

Speaking during their brief stop in the region, travel author, Mr Bucknall, said: “It’s all for a great cause - for every one physically wounded veteran, it is estimated that five will develop some form of mental injury. It’s an unseen injury.

“It’s all about pride for servicemen and women. Often they will have a smile on their face and won’t tell anyone if they’re in trouble but the reality is ten per cent of those will end up sleeping rough.

“The money we raise will go towards helping those veterans who have nowhere to go this Christmas.”

The pair were greeted by the Bishop of London to mark the end of their walk on December 14 as part of the Walking with the Wounded’s Walking Home for Christmas 2015 campaign – which hopes to raise £200,000.

Donations are still being accepted at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/WalkingHomeForChristmas2015