TWO brothers are walking seven marathons in seven day days across two counties to raise money for hospitality workers’ mental health.

John and David Ray, from Southampton, are starting the challenge on Monday and will be walking the length and breadth of Hampshire and Sussex, which will total 184 miles.

The duo are hoping to raise funds for The Burnt Chef Project, a charity who provide support services to support the mental health of hospitality workers.

The route will see them set off from Southampton on October 11, with the Mayor of Southampton starting on their venture. They will then be joined by the Mayor of Winchester for day two and the Mayor of Brighton, Alan Robins, on day five.

The brothers will be trekking past many landmarks such as Winchester Cathedral, Devil’s Dyke, Brighton Pier and Arundel Castle before arriving back in Southampton on October 17.

The Argus: Devil's Dyke. Picture by Simon Dack.Devil's Dyke. Picture by Simon Dack.

They have been supported by The Accor Group, who are providing them with overnight accommodation.

John Ray, 46, a multi-hotel night manager, said: “I’ve worked in the hospitality industry on and off since I left school, always returning to an industry I love. I’ve seen first-hand the impact it can have on people’s mental health.

“Over the years, I’ve known so many struggle including myself and it’s only now, with The Burnt Chef Project leading the way, that I can see actual change being incited within our great industry.

“I can’t wait to get on the road with my big brother and start raising awareness for the future of hospitality and do my part to eradicate the stigma of mental health.”

The Argus: They will walk past Arundel Castle.They will walk past Arundel Castle.

Army veteran David Ray, 54, said he knows the pressures people in hospitality face.

David said: “When John told me he was planning this, I thought he was mad! But after I left the army, I went into hospitality and trained to become a chef so I understand the pressures people face within the industry.”

Kris Hall, founder of The Burnt Chef Project said “Without people like John and David, we wouldn’t be able to continue our valued work in the hospitality sector where it’s needed now more than ever.

“We wish him all the best with the challenge and look forward to joining John and David to cross the finish line on 17th October in Southampton.”

To donate to John and David’s cause, visit their GoFundMe link