A FORMER soldier is sacrificing a Christmas with his family in the same way as thousands of servicemen on the front line.

John Baxter, of Castletown, Portland, is stepping out to raise money for a charity close to his heart – Help the Heroes – after serving in the Army for nine years.

The 51-year-old grandad is preparing to walk the 630-mile South West Coast Path from Poole to Minehead, leaving on November 1.

He expects the journey to take him up to 11 weeks, taking him away from his five daughters and eight grandchildren over the festive and New Year period.

Mr Baxter, a contractor at Portland Harbour, said: “I know it’s the worst time of the year to be doing it and it’s going to be a challenge but I’m doing it for those people who have had it really hard, so I’m willing to do something really hard to repay them. “I’m putting myself out like they are for us.”

Mr Baxter said his daughters Kizzie, twins Diane and Donna, twins Jodie and Julie and his grandchildren accept it is something he has to do.

“They’re really pleased I’m going to be doing it but they think I’m mad,” he said.

Mr Baxter anticipates seeing in the New Year alone too. He said: “I’ll probably have a party on my own and light a candle. All that sort of thing doesn’t worry me – I’m getting too old for all that.”

But he might not be completely alone – he is searching for a four-legged companion to keep him company.

“I’m going to end up talking to myself so I would like a dog that likes a good walk,” said Mr Baxter.

“There must be one looking for a home somewhere and I will keep the dog afterwards.”

While most people would be dreading up to three months roughing it in a tent, Mr Baxter says he is used to that way of life because he was homeless for three months.

The ex-trooper, whose wife died a few years ago, is hoping for some goodwill along the way. “I would love it if someone would give me a Christmas dinner when I’m walking,” he said.

“I’m just hoping for generosity – hopefully someone will give me a tin of beans.”

As well as donations for the charity, he is also appealing for donations to help him buy the necessary equipment.

Mr Baxter is not doing any special training, although he will be battling a knee problem.

But the determined grandfather – known locally as the Cornish Commando – will not let that stop him.

He said: “Everybody sets themselves a goal and if you don’t just go and do it, you never will. It’s painful, but I’m going to do it.”

To make a donation to Mr Baxter contact him on 07888 981824 or send donations to The Green Shutters, 12 Castletown, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1BD.