A charity fundraiser is training for an epic 2,500-mile walk by hiking in Sussex.

Joel Armstrong, 32, from Wivelsfield Green, plans to walk the entire length of Japan, from the most southern point of the country to its most northern point.

The fine-art photographer is raising money for orphans of the 2011 tsunami, MacMillan nurses and mesothelioma cancer. He will don his hiking boots in March, exactly four years after the devastating tsunami and hopes to complete the challenge within four months – all while carrying a 60kg sled with equipment and food.

He said: “The journey will be roughly 2,500 miles with a cumulative elevation gain of 53,000ft.

“I’ve reached my first 1,000 training miles – which I’ve completed across the Sussex countryside.

“It will be a solo, unsupported journey and I’ll be lugging all my food, water, tent and camera equipment on my back.”

Mr Armstrong is searching for corporate sponsorship for his challenge. If you can help, email iwalkfarr@gmail.com or call 07795484013.

For more information, visit www.joelarmstrongphoto graphy.com