An ex-Royal Marine commando who has taken on a gruelling 125-mile kayak race to help veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder has received the backing of a West Wales housebuilder.

Andrew Trollope, from Pontarddulais, was donated £500 from Persimmon Homes West Wales to complete the epic feat, which took him from Devizes to Westminster Bridge in London.

The gruelling kayak race has been held annually since 1948 and takes over 30 hours to complete.

The 43-year-old said: “To take part in such a momentous event was fantastic and to receive the backing of Persimmon Homes West Wales really spurred me on.

“To raise money for such a good cause – the Cockleshell Endeavour Project which helps veterans with PTSD – was so important to me.

“It was an intense 30 hours or so but having the charity in mind really got me through.

“According to the Ministry of Defence, PTSD has risen by a fifth in the last year, so Persimmon’s generous donation was very warmly welcomed.

“The race took us along the Kent and Avon canal to Reading, then on the River Thames to Teddington, with the final 17 miles of the journey being on the tidal portion of the Thames.

“I really can’t thank Persimmon enough for their kind backing.”

Sharon Robinson, sales director for Persimmon Homes West Wales, said “When we heard about Andrew’s epic challenge we couldn’t help but show our support.

“The Cockleshell Endeavour Project is so important for veterans and serving Armed Forces personnel suffering from PTSD – we’re proud to support them.

“Choosing two winners each month is always a tricky task, but we would encourage those that have not been chosen to try again for a chance to become our latest Community Champion beneficiary.”

To apply for Community Champions funding, visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity