A SOLDIER stationed in Afg-hanistan is using pedal power to raise money for the Stroke Association.

Sgt Andy Carlyle, who is on duty at Camp Bastion until November, is nearing the end of a gruelling challenge to cycle 3,600 miles on an exercise bike.

He has been covering 31 miles every day in scorching temperatures reaching more than 40C and now has less than a month left until his challenge is complete.

The 3,600 miles is the equivalent of the distance from Camp Bastion to Worcester, where Sgt Carlyle lives.

But it is not homesickness that made him choose that particular challenge, rather a determination to raise mon-ey for the Stroke Association, which has helped his father John to recover from suffering a stroke last year.

“We were devastated when my dad had a stroke, but thanks to the amazing work of the staff at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and the Stro-ke Association, he’s on the road to recovery,” said the 30-year-old. “He’s doing all he can at the moment to get back on his feet and walking again, and a daily of cycle of 31 miles is my way of doing my bit to support him while I’m in Afghanistan.

“The heat is one of the hardest things I have to deal with, but I’m determined to do what I can to raise funds for an incredible charity.”

Sophie James, community and events fund-raising manager at Stroke Association, said: “Andy is a true inspiration to take on such an incredible challenge as a way of thanking those who have cared for his dad.

“It would be fantastic if the people of Worcester could get behind and show support for his fund-raising.”

Sgt Carlyle has already raised almost £1,000 of his £1,500 target and anyone can support him by going online at justgiving.com/Andy-Carlyle. and making a donation.