MALVERN Theatres' resident writer will be swapping his keyboard for hiking boots when he walks the length of Hadrian's Wall.

Nick Wilkes, aged 40, is taking on the challenge both to raise money for forces' charity Help For Heroes, and to research a play he is planning.

He said: "I got the idea to raise money for Help For Heroes when I was walking in Scotland and I met Christian Nock, the ex-soldier who raised £200,000 by walking round the coastline of Britain. His dedication inspired me and I thought I ought to do something myself."

The walk will also be research for the play, about four school friends who meet in later life, to walk Hadrian’s Wall and complete the school project they once started.

"I haven't written it yet, but I'm sure I'll get lots of good ideas on the walk," said Mr Wilkes. "I find these research trips very useful. I visited the Isle of Man whilst writing a comedy set there called Three Feet. I visited the Isle of Skye whilst writing a play about a Scottish radio station and distillery called Radiodram."

Mr Wilkes will be setting out for the 90-mile trek on Monday, April 21. Anyone who wants to sponsor him should contact malvernbard@me.com.