NEWPORT'S Wales rugby star, Ryan Jones, will be supporting Walk on Wales' fundraising efforts for the Welsh Guards Afghanistan Appeal.

The ex-Bassaleg school pupil has chosen the appeal as his testimonial charity and teamed up with adventurer Bear Grylls to support it.

Walk on Wales is a fundraising event set up by two Falklands War veterans which will see participants tackle the newly opened Wales coastal path.

The 820 mile route will be split up into 11 stages with walkers raising money for both the Welsh Guards appeal and Combat Stress, a charity which supports veterans mental health care.

The Wales and Ospreys back-row, said: "The Welsh Guards have paid a heavy price for their two tours of duty in Afghanistan, not only have nine soldiers been killed but many others have been injured.

"But that isn't all, in the years to come some of those who have served will be badly affected by post-traumatic stress disorder - when recurring nightmares develop into more serious mental illnesses, with devastating impact on those soldiers and their families lives. "

Walk on Wales has set out to raise £1 million, half of which will be donated to the Welsh Guards Afghanistan Appeal, the other half to Combat Stress, two charities that are making an enormous difference to the lives of serving and veteran soldiers.

"I hope to take part in the Walk, and call upon my fans and supporters of the Welsh Rugby Union to sign up for a day too."

If you would like to find out more visit www.walkonwales.org