The local disabled war veteran, who already raises cash for Maggie's and Kingdom Kids donating a percentage of sales from his paintings, is busy planning his latest charity sponsored walk.

He will spend 23 days in June walking the entire length of Hadrian's Wall for his two chosen charities and sets off on June 1 in the west at Bowness-on-Solway finishing 97 miles later on the east coast at Heddon on the Wall.

Added to the massive challenge, Richard has set a mammoth fundraising target of £25,000.

Due to his disability he is only able to safely cover up to five miles per day, and may need additional rest days.

Most of the nights will be spent camping out on the walk, and Richard is also looking for contributions of equipment and food for his team as well as commercial and public sponsorship.

Richard served for 12 years with The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, before being invalided out after suffering injuries to his back and has since gone through five spinal operations.

But he turned his talents as an artist to good use and produces works in bright acrylic paints.

His portfolio includes the Scottish coast, mountains, glens, lochs and castles.

He is well known for his very popular images of the Forth Bridge. Richard donates a percentage of his painting sales to Maggie's and to Kingdom Kids.

As an added incentive this time around, Richard will donate one of his special paintings to the person or company making the top donation to his Hadrian's Wall walk.

He said: "I really enjoy raising funds for Maggie's Centre and for Kingdom Kids. I am confident of completing the walk across the breadth of England, supported by my team.

'' I appeal to everyone to help me achieve my target for the benefit of these worthwhile local charities."