TAVISTOCK will be one of the stopping places for a 71 year-old man this month, who is undertaking an 18-month sponsored walk across the UK to raise money for the Salvation Army's work for homeless people and victims of human trafficking.

Andy Peddle, from Buckinghamshire, will be visiting the Salvation Army base at the United Reformed Church in Russell Street on Wednesday, July 31 at 3pm, dressed in a top hat and tails as part his 7,900 mile or 15 million trek.

His trek to most of the UK's Salvation Army churches, lifehouses and charity shops is a phenomenal effort in a bid to raise £100,000 for the cause.

When arriving in Tavistock he will give a talk about the issues of human trafficking and homelessness.

Andy, who 20 years ago did a similar 8,000 walk to raise money for people starving in Africa, said: 'The Salvation Army has a long history of offering practical support to people who are vulnerable or in need.'

Since July 1, 2011 more than 300 victims of human trafficking have been supported by the Salvation Army and partner organisations — helping 3,500 homeless men, women and families every night.

Andy said: 'The Salvation Army's saying "Heart to God, hand to man" has inspired me to take on this challenge. It will be a personal pilgrimage too — we are renting out our home and my wife will be relocating to Leeds whilst I am raising the money.'

A support van follows Andy on his trek so he can have a break and sleep.

His epic journey began on May 18, 2012 in the Shetland Islands, and so far he has walked nearly 5,000 miles and spent three months walking across Scotland before moving onto Ireland, Wales and England.

Andy added: 'I want people over the age of 65 to realise that life does go on and that you can volunteer and get involved.

'I would love to see as many people as possible support me by doing their own mini sponsored walks from one mile and up and put their pictures on Facebook, Twitter and Flickr.

To track his progress go to Facebook or Twitter —salvationarmyuk