A STOGURSEY man has managed to lose an incredible 14 stone in under a year.

In September, Rob Sparkes went to the doctors, and was told that his weight was likely to cause him serious health problems if it was not addressed.

Inspired by the birth of his second child, Rob, who then weighed 31st 8lbs, decided he needed to make a change and began walking and hiking around the beautiful countryside where he lives near the Quantock hills.

“Initially I started by going to the gym and seeing a personal trainer once or twice a week,” Mr Sparkes said.

“I was so unfit to begin with I could not walk up a flight of stairs.

“I started doing more exercise and making better choices with my food - particularly when it comes to portion size.”

Now Rob has shed so much weight and has fallen in love with walking, hiking and running, he is planning to take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society.

It is a 25 mile circular walk which Rob is aiming to complete within 12 hours.

The challenge includes 1,500m of ascent and descent, and he will be setting off with a guide on his trek at 6.30am on Wednesday, August 19.

“This will be the most challenging activity I have ever done and I hope to combine it with raising money for a great charity close to mine and my family’s heart,” Rob said.

“Alzheimer’s Society is transforming the landscape of dementia forever.

“Until the day we find a cure, we will create a society where those affected by dementia are supported and accepted, able to live in their community without fear or prejudice.”

Rob has raised £635 so far for the charity.

If you would like to donate visit justgiving.com/fundraising/robs-yorkshire-three-peaks-challenge

Rob has also taken to running during his journey, and has joined the Quantock Harriers running club.

He is training with a view to taking on the Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon in December.