A FITNESS fanatic who plans to attempt a new world record next week has appealed to public for help.
Former Standard illustrator Mike Land, aged 52, will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the furthest distance to pull a vehicle in 24 hours, and in the process raise money for Wiltshire Air Ambulance next week.
To beat the current record the Swindon-based designer needs to pull a van for 36 miles.
Mike was planning to undertake this momentous challenge on Thursday, August 10, however the venue fell through as it didn't meet the strict requirements.
In order to file the world record the venue must be completely flat and level (have a 1:1 gradient) and have some degree of public access.
Mike has contacted owners of airports, business parks and car parks across Wiltshire and Gloucestershire, but so far his search has been unfruitful.
He is also looking for a willing surveyor to assess the record attempt area once it has been found.
The designer is no stranger to fundraising challenges and has already taken part in multiple marathons, cycles, swimming challenges and Spin-a-thons.
Mike told the Standard that his desire to undertake such physical challenges comes from a terrifying incident that happened after he left college.
He decided to do a bungee jump, but during the jump the rope snapped.
As a result, he fractured his pelvis and was rushed to Great Western Hospital in Swindon and was told that he might have restricted movement in his legs and arms in the future.
Since then he has consistently proved the nurses wrong and has shocked himself with his abilities.
Mike said: "To be honest, I don't know if this challenge is crazy or amazing.
"I really wanted to do something different, so just flippantly thought, why don't I pull a van?
"Strengthening my back and calves is very important for this challenge.
"I really wanted to do something out of the box to raise money for all the amazing things Wiltshire Air Ambulance do.
"I was supposed to complete the challenge in Cotswold Airport but the gradient there was 1:3, which is against the rules and would make my efforts unusable for a world record attempt.
"We really need a suitable venue but keep coming up short on options.
"Something like an airstrip, wide private road or large flat tarmac/concrete/paved area would be ideal."
To contact Mike about a suitable venue email mike@nickeldesign.co.uk or call 07794 825752.
To find out more about this challenge and donate visit tinyurl.com/4t9hnsp2
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