A SERVING soldier and a Milk Cup winner are among a band of Oxford United fans tackling a 24-mile walk for charity.

Lance Corporal Andy Wilmer has returned home from Afghanistan in time to join more than 20 other supporters making their way from the Kassam Stadium to Wycombe on foot.

He will be joined by former U’s player Les Phillips, who made more than 200 appearances for United, including in the 1986 Milk Cup final.

The walk is being organised by supporters’ trust Ox Vox and will raise money for Oxford’s Helen & Douglas House hospices and the club’s Youth and Community Trust, which is a registered charity.

L Cpl Wilmer returned from Afghanistan on Thursday after a six-month tour of duty.

The 29-year-old season-ticket holder, who was born in Oxford and lives in Kennington, said: “I decided to do the walk to show my support not only for the club and Ox Vox but also the two charities involved.

“Any charities who rely on donations need all the support and fundraising they can get, and if I can help in any way in raising money for a good cause I’m more than willing to help out. Plus it’s a good way to get to know the members of Ox Vox, club supporters and club staff taking part.

“I think my army training puts me in good stead for most things I do.

“I’m not as fit as I should be at the moment but I’m used to running everywhere and doing things at 100 miles an hour, so to walk somewhere will make a nice change.”

The group, which will also include club director Simon Lenagan, will leave the Kassam Stadium at 5.30am on October 27 to arrive at Wycombe Wanderers in time for United’s 3pm kick-off at Adams Park.

Ox Vox chairman Mark Sennett said: “We’re looking to raise money for Oxford United’s Youth and Community Trust, which I don’t think many people appreciate reaches 30,000 kids a year to introduce them to sport.

“On the same theme we also wanted to raise money for a charity which has done plenty for the local community, so we chose Helen & Douglas House.

He added: “Oxford United has a sense of community among the fans so doing projects like this brings out the best in people.”

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/oxvox