A VETERAN from Hereford is attempting a world record-breaking truck drive up an infamous route in South America.

Chris Bailey served for just under eight years with the RAF regiment, and served two tours in Iraq.

He broke his back in three places, nearly lost his left foot, and was hospitalised for five months.

He was also diagnosed with PTSD and it has taken him 14 years to get himself back to a point where he is as independent as can be.

He was told that he would never walk again but has regained the use of his legs and can now walk without crutches.

Chris, along with Australian veteran Paul Warren, are attempting to set a new world record for high-altitude driving.

Equipped with two Rheinmetall MAN HX trucks, the expedition aims to reach the highest point on earth accessible to motor vehicles.

In order to set a new world record, they will have to reach an altitude of at least 6,690 metres above sea level.

The convoy hopes to scale Ojos del Salado in Chile, the world’s highest active volcano.

The trip will be raising money for the Royal British Legion and Walking with the Wounded.

Chris is co-ordinator of the Herefordshire Veterans Support Group, and the veterans mentor at the Cart Shed which is an outdoor therapeutic intervention based in the woods in Herefordshire.

The trip has already started and will finish in December. You can follow the progress of the trip via www.rheinmetall.com/truckexpedition