Port Solent amputee’s 10 day charity challenge for Huntington's Disease Association.

Harley Salter, 25, had to have his foot removed due to a congenital birth defect. He has also been diagnosed as autistic and having Tourette syndrome. Despite these daily challenges, Harley has raised hundreds of pounds for charity, taking part in an abseil, indoor skydive and last year’s Great South Run.

On Sunday, April 26, Harley will be taking on the 2.6 Challenge which has been set up by organisers of the London Marathon which was due to take place on the same date. The Save the UK’s Charities initiative, which involves any physical challenge based around the numbers two and six, has been devised to fill the estimated £4bn void in charity fundraising due to the cancellation of thousands of events due to Covid-19.

For 10 consecutive days, Harley will cover 2.6 miles between Port Solent and Portchester Castle.

Harley said: ‘I’m really looking forward to the challenge. I hope to raise £2,626.26 for the charity.’

Mum, Vanessa Harley, 51, added: ‘Harley loves a challenge. Each day he is going to try and cover the 2.6 miles faster than the day before. While 2.6 miles may not sound like a lot to some people it will be a challenge for Harley as where his prosthetic is fitted can often become sore and uncomfortable.’

To cover the distance Harley will be using his Alinker walking bike which helps to provide support and take the weight of his prosthetic. He used the bike to complete October’s Great South Run in which he raised £650 for the Huntington’s Disease Association.

‘I’ve been out practising on my bike by doing a daily mile challenge,’ said Harley.

Harley and Vanessa decided to raise money for the charity as Vanessa knows a number of people afflicted by the condition in her role as regional association committee member.

‘The disease has a devastating impact on both individuals and their families. There is also a 50 per cent chance it can be passed on genetically. It’s vital we continue to raise money to find a cure for this disease. We are only a couple of years away from a cure which will have a dramatic impact on people’s lives,’ she said.

SEE ALSO: Fundraiser for devastated North End man whose mum dies and granddad passes away after contracting coronavirus at her funeral

Hugh Brasher, director of London Marathon Events, said fundraisers such as Harley’s challenge will provide a vital lifeline for the nation’s charities.

‘Right now, our vulnerable members of society need the help of charities more than ever before,’ he said.

To donate go to http://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/harley-salter26

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