Brothers set for John O'Groats-to-Land's End relay

Alfie (left) and Joe Pritchard (right) worked with Dr Matt Cook at Worcester University [University of Worcester] Two brothers have taken part in advanced physical testing as they prepare for a two-man relay from John O'Groats to Land's End. Alfie and Joe Pritchard, from Worcester, will set off from the northern tip of Scotland on 18 May. They are raising funds for Help the Heroes and hope to set a record for the fastest two-man relay of the 837mile (1,497km) route.

Older brother Alfie, 27, explained "one of us will always be running while the other is in the car, either resting, or sleeping". They hope to complete the challenge in under eight days. Ahead of the event, aspects such as their oxygen uptake was analysed at the University of Worcester, which concluded they were both "in great shape".

The brothers co-founded clothing company Mile Pie, which gives 25% of its profits to charity. Alfie said they would begin running "half an hour on, half an hour off" before moving to blocks or two or four hours, with the other brother rested. "We're feeling really good about it.

We'll be running through a lot of major cities, and we're hoping people will come out and cheer us on," he said. They are aiming to raise £10,000 for the charity, which supports veterans across the country. "We wanted to work with Help the Heroes just as a way of giving a little bit back to veterans and their families," he said.