A RAF veteran from Winsford is going the extra mile for his birthday – 60 of them to be precise.

While most people who reach a milestone birthday might plan a night out or a holiday, former aircraft engineer Andy Gibbs is challenging himself by running 60 miles – one for each year of his life so far.

The 59-year-old, who moved to the town 16 years ago, has always been a keen runner and still hits the roads about six times a week.

Having taken part in endurance races in the past, Andy wanted to see if he still “had it” as he neared the age of 60.

“I’ve been running competitively since I was 11,” he said.

“I ran for my county when I was a kid and represented the air force during my time there.

“I’ve also done several endurance races in the past,” he said.

“While I’ve often done them for good charitable causes, this one is just for me.

“It’s a personal thing and I just want to find out if I’ve still got and can I still do it – I guess I’ll find out soon enough!”

Andy enjoyed a near 30-year career working in the RAF before his experience working with aircraft tech led to a new career in IT.

Northwich Guardian: Andy racing along the runway at RAF BensonAndy racing along the runway at RAF Benson

Having now retired he has been busy planning the route for his 60 at 60 challenge, which will start on the Wirral coast before meandering down into Cheshire and finishing in his hometown.

“The longest I’ve ran in the past was 85 miles,” he added.

“That was when I did part of ‘The Ridgeway’ which is one of the oldest roads in Europe, originally stretching 250 miles from Lyme Regis in Dorset.

“What remains now is 85 miles passing through five counties.

“I ran though Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire, including a short stretch along the River Thames before rising on to the undulating Chiltern Hills.

“After 20 hours and 20 minutes, I completed the entire Ridgeway – all 85 miles of it.”

Andy will set off on his challenge on Wednesday, June 8.