AN ADVENTURER from Pickmere is preparing to embark on a year of living dangerously.

Bull running, ice toboggan racing and mountaineering are among the challenges Andrew Wright, of Pickmere Lane, has planned for 2016.

"I have a series of projects which are very exciting and very challenging," he said.

"My Year of Living Dangerously isn't something I've dreamed up in the last week or year, it's been on my mind for 20 years and I now have the skills, talents and opportunity to go and do it and achieve."

Andrew, a Youth Hostel warden and a former Special Constable, has already braved a number of extreme cycling and walking expeditions in the past decade, including a 1,280km bike trek through the Middle East in the footsteps of one of his heroes, Lawrence of Arabia, crossing the central glacial desert in Iceland solo and unsupported and Le Raid Pyrenean.

In February this year he was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, which has fuelled his thirst for adventure.

"I've been inspired by being elected to the Fellowship of the Royal Geographical Society because it's changed my life," he said.

"So many opportunities are coming my way, you wouldn't believe it."

Andrew's Year of Living Dangerously begins in May when he plans to cycle Tour de France climbs, including Mount Ventoux and Alp du Huez.

In June he will head to Russia to climb Mount Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe.

On his return from Russia he will make his way to Spain to the Festival of St Fermin in Pamploma to run the bulls.

This will be followed by the 45-mile Across Wales Walk from Shropshire to Aberystwyth in September.

In October Andrew will jump on his bicycle again to lead the Road to Morocco Cycling Expedition 2016.

He will round off the year by taking part in the Cresta Run at St Moritz, in Switzerland, which is a renowned ice run travelling three quarters of a mile and dropping 514ft.

Andrew is using the year as an opportunity to fundraise for the mental health charity Mind.

"My motivation is that I have a lust for glory like General Patton and I want to give something back to Mind because I've suffered mental health problems in the past," he said.

"If people see that I can do these things it may help to inspire them."

To sponsor him visit justgiving.com/ANDREWWRIGHT-8117