East Yorkshire blind man appeals for guides for charity walk

Mr Elliker-Reeve said no experience was needed, but a great sense of humour would help

A man from East Yorkshire who lost his sight following complications during surgery is looking for people to help guide him on a charity walk.

Andrew Elliker-Reeve, from Beeford, plans to walk 245 miles (394km) from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Bridlington later this year.

Mr Elliker-Reeve, who has previously walked the Cleveland Way and Wolds Way, said this was his longest walk to date.

He is aiming to raise more than £10,000 for Guide Dogs UK.

Mr Elliker-Reeve said people did not need any experience to guide him as they could "learn together".

He hopes to recruit around 60 volunteers to assist him on the challenge which is planned for September

However, he said: "They've got to be capable of walking at least 12 miles a day, and I'd like them to be fully sighted."

Mr Elliker-Reeve went into hospital in February 2020 for elective surgery, but complications meant he went into a coma for ten days and lost his sight as a result.

"The one thing I realised when I went suddenly blind is if I'd been on my own I wouldn't have coped," he said.

"I have my wife Rebecca. I am so lucky, so it's nice if I can give a bit back so that other people who aren't as fortunate as me can enjoy their lives."

"I actually think I'm happier now than I was when I was sighted," he added.

Mr Elliker-Reeve began writing a blog after losing his sight, which he said had been "fantastic" for his mental health, and for others "facing difficult times".

In it he talks about his daily life, his sight loss and living with a stoma. He also gives public talks and fundraises.

"The biggest thing is you have to talk. I grew up in the north east of England and when I was younger men didn't have emotions. They had another pint. You need to talk. Talk a lot," he told BBC Look North.

"My advice to others is that you forget what you were. Concentrate on what you are now. And be the best you can be."