A MIDSOMER Norton man has reached the halfway point in his challenge to walk 10,000 steps every day for a year in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Darren Gould, began the challenge on 7 January and has already walked almost two million steps and is on track to complete more than 3.65 million by January 2027.

So far, he has raised more than £2,900 towards his fundraising target and is aiming to reach £5,000 by the end of the challenge.

Darren works in the motor industry and volunteers at Chilcompton Sports Club and fits in walks whenever he can throughout the day, choosing local routes to add to his step count.

He can often be seen walking through Midsomer Norton, Coleford and sometimes Frome, wearing a distinctive pink t-shirt bearing the words “Ask me why I’m doing this” with his dog Maisie, by his side.

Whatever the weather, Darren makes sure he completes his daily target. He decided to take on the challenge after losing several loved ones to cancer.

He said: “Cancer Research UK is a charity close to my heart, having lost loved ones to this dreadful disease.

“Cancer affects so many families every day and I just wanted to do something to help raise awareness, as well as vital funds for this amazing charity to help as many families as possible.

“I won’t lie, it's really challenging. 10,000 steps a day is roughly 9.5 km and some days I find it really difficult, but I know why I am doing this, and that gets me through each step.

“I am just over halfway through my challenge and the support I have received so far has been outstanding.”

Donations can be made to his fundraising page at: tinyurl.com/yc8cka3r