A SOLDIER who overcome kidney complications has tackled a gruelling cross-country challenge, all while raising hundreds of pounds for charity.

Private Isaac Doku, who is based at the Merville Barracks, in Colchester, took part in a five-mile fitness excursion today alongside 500 army personnel.

Gruellingly, the first two miles of the painstaking off-road test saw him carry a 5kg load in his daysack, but through gritted teeth Isaac ploughed on.

He took on the challenge to generate funding for Kidney Care UK, which is the country's leading kidney patient support charity.

Gazette: Picture: Steve BradingPicture: Steve Brading (Image: Steve Brading)

Private Issac was inspired to support the non-profit organisation after going under the knife three times to have a stone removed from his kidney.

He had headed to A&E after experiencing unbearable pain in his ribs which left him unable to move just one week before he was due to be deployed abroad.

"As a soldier I was looking forward to serving in a real conflict to make a difference and to put to use all my training," said Isaac.

"The thought of going under the knife made me wonder whether I would ever be able to fully recover to my strength levels again.

"After the surgery I was thankful for the swift action of my doctors and eager to get my strength back.

"I still carry the scars and sometimes experience pain when I stretch myself too much, but I am now back to my normal self."

Isaac's efforts have now resulted in more than £400 being raised for the charity, but he still holds out hope of hitting his £2,000 target.

Gazette: Picture: Steve BradingPicture: Steve Brading (Image: Steve Brading)

"I always tell myself things take seconds to destroy but ages to fix, so I'm asking everyone to start fixing it now by donating any small amount," he added.

"This is so that others can benefit from the treatment that saved me."

According to statistics collected by Kidney Care UK, more than 3.5 million people currently have kidney disease in Great Britain.

Laura Toop, community fundraising manager, added: "We believe everyone with kidney disease should be able to live life to the full and Private Doku is certainly taking on this challenge.

"We really appreciate his support in both raising money and awareness to help us support more people affected by kidney disease across the UK."

To donate visit justgiving.com/fundraising/isaac-doku.