AN ARMY reservist who now works as a work psychologist who helps people to realise their potential by building resilience has taken on a challenge to help a charity close to his heart.

Sean Riley, from Catterick, will turn 50 in April, and has set himself a challenge to raise awareness and funds for the Camphill Village Trust, a charity which supports adults with learning disabilities.

Mr Riley is set to use his indoor rower to attempt to complete 50km a day for 50 days, ending on his 50th birthday.

He believes the 50,50,50 challenge will be a world record, and is in touch with Guinness World Records.

He said: "I am a work and organisational psychologist, passionate about helping individuals and organisations to negotiate the speed bumps of life and avoid the road blocks.

"Recently I have become much more involved and interested in the subject of neurodiversity, how this affects individuals and, equally how this can affect families and carers.

"Founded in 1955, Botton, near Guisborough, was the first Camphill centre to offer opportunities to adults with learning disabilities and other special needs. The work carried out and the support of the staff is phenomenal, not to forget the support of families, but I feel that more needs to be done to raise awareness of this commitment and hopefully raise funds to increase this vital support.

"The 50,50,50 challenge will significantly test my endurance and resilience but spare a thought for those with learning disabilities and their families and the ongoing endurance and resilience that they demonstrate day after day.

"I will have to be rowing for about four to five hours a day, probably nearer five if I'm going to keep a steady pace and not be too tired to carry on the next day. I'll have to really think about my diet too so I've got plenty of energy. And I'll definitely have a playlist to keep me going – I'm a big music fan so I plan to go right back through the archives."

Mr Riley is a mobilised reserve Army officer assigned to the Joint Military Command North East. He is a liaison officer to the NHS where he is providing planning support, coaching and mentoring, team development and resilience training.

To support Mr Riley, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sean-riley6.