Determined to raise money and promote awareness of mental health issues, a resident from Norwich has challenged himself to complete the Three Peaks Challenge in just 24 hours.

Luke Owen of Havelock Road, off Earlham Road, West Pottergate, decided to take on the challenge to support the charity MIND.

He said: 'A lot of my friends have had issues with depression and without the support of organisations like MIND people wouldn't be able to cope with mental illness.'

Although a regular at the gym Mr Owen explained why it will still be a test for him and said: 'I do go to the gym but hiking is a fairly new thing. It will be exhausting but good.

'I should get a chance to rest in between travelling to each of the different peaks.'

The challenge involves climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours: Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon (respectively).

Ben Nevis is the highest of the three peaks at 1344 metres (4409 ft) and has only one main path.

Unlike Snowdon and Scafell Pike, the path to Ben Nevis starts close to sea level, meaning there is a much greater vertical ascent.

Mr Owen said he is looking forward to the challenge, explaining: 'It is not only about raising money for good cause but it is also a fantastic thing to see what you've done.'

He hopes to raise �500 in total and has so far raised �180. Mr Owen will doing the challenge on June 12, this year.

MIND is the leading mental health charity for England and Wales, and the charity campaigns to create a society that promotes and protects good mental health for all, and for people with experience of mental distress to be treated fairly, positively and with respect.

For more information about the charity visit www.mind.org.uk or call 0845 766 0163.

To sponsor Mr Owen visit follow the link to his sponsorship website at the top of the page.

Are you taking on an exciting challenge or looking to promote a charity close to your heart? Contact Local Life editor Donna-Louise Bishop at donna-louise.bishop@archant.co.uk or call 01603 772438.