Cosham army veteran stunned after completing 'toughest challenge ever' to help those with mental health issues

Fitness fanatic Daryl Green burned off a whopping 18,118 calories – the equivalent of nine days’ worth – as he rowed almost 140 miles in a single day.

And his marathon feat of endurance raised a huge £2,818 for mental health charity Mind, almost double the 27-year-old’s £1,500 target.

The retired Corporal, who lives in Cosham but completed the mammoth task on his grandparents’ drive in Waterlooville, said: ‘This was the toughest physical challenge I have ever done. It seemed to go on forever.

‘But the support I have received has been amazing. I feel extremely proud, not just for completing the challenge, but because so many donated.’

Daryl began his quest on Wednesday evening, rowing 90-minute sets, with just 10 minutes or so between them to eat.

Surviving on sweets and cereal, he managed to complete a total 21hr 41min 10sec of rowing, leaving him both physically and mentally drained.

‘The hardest part was during the evening when you’re all alone and left with your thoughts, watching the clock count down 90 minutes,’ he added.

‘But I learned I was capable of more than I thought I could ever do. I learned to let thoughts go more easily and not to focus on the negatives.’

The former soldier was inspired to take on the challenge the week before as a way of raising awareness about mental health.

Daryl, who served eight years in the 2nd Battalion, the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment, said the stay-at-home measures could have a serious impact on people’s mental wellbeing.

He added his anxiety had flared up as a result of the lockdown and feared other people with similar issues could also suffer.

‘The money I’ve raised will make a huge difference,’ fitness coach Daryl said. ‘I believe that charities like Mind are going to be working a lot harder come the end of this.

‘So if what I’ve done can help pay for just one person to receive support after all of this, then I will be happy.’

Daryl urged those who are worried about their mental health to approach charities or loved ones for support.

‘It takes a lot of courage to say you need help – it doesn’t mean you’re weak or you’ve failed,’ he said.

For help, see mind.org.uk

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