A FORMER soldier is set to lead a walk along Droitwich’s canal towpaths to raise funds for a town school.

Spa man John O’Rourke, who used to serve with the Irish Guards, will take on a sponsored eight hour challenge on Saturday, August 18 with a group of residents.

He is hoping to raise cash for a new security fence at Westlands First School, Farmers Way.

The group will leave from the school at 8am, travel along Droitwich Barge Canal towards Hawford Lock, near Worcester, then turn back and make the return journey.

Mr O’Rourke said: “We are hoping to raise as much as possible so the school can get a new security fence. It would be great for more people to come down and join the walk.

“We will be giving out sponsorship forms so that others can support our efforts. I also know there are a few other former Irish Guards in the area, it would be great if they came as well.

“We want to help the school and have already got a number of people who are going to take part.

“It would be brilliant if we could make the walk an annual event.”

Anyone who would like to support the walk can call John O’Rourke on 07827923991.