AN army sergeant currently serving in Afghanistan is on his way to completing a 3,600-mile cycle ride to support his father learning to walk again after a stroke.

Andy Carlyle, of Bewdley, is pedalling the equivalent distance between Afghanistan and the Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Worcester, on an exercise bike to raise £1,500 for a charity helping his father get back on his feet.

The 30-year-old, who is currently based at Camp Bastion, was inspired to take on the challenge, which sees him cover 31 miles each day in temperatures reaching more than 40 degrees, for the Stroke Association.

His father, of Cleobury Mortimer, suffered a stroke last year.

He said: “We were devastated when my dad had a stroke in 2012, but thanks to the amazing work of the staff at Worcester hospital and the Stroke Association, he’s on the road to recovery.

“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.

“I’m on active duty in Camp Bastion until November, so I have one more month to go until I’ve cycled the distance from Afghanistan to Worcester.

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

Sophie James, community and events fund-raising manager at Stroke Association, added: “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 Shropshire could get behind and show support for his fund-raising in Afghanistan by making a donation.”

People can support Mr Carlyle online at justgiving.

com/Andy-Carlyle.