AN Andover man is recovering in hospital - the victim of an attack just hours after he completed a gruelling four-day walk for charity.

Darren Grahame who lives in Artists Way had just finished the marathon 120 mile trek in torrential rain, up and down the Kennet and Avon canal.

He was raising funds on behalf of The Bridge in Bridge Street, for orphaned children in Malawi whose parents have died from AIDS.

He suffered serious chest injuries when he was kicked during the assault which happened in Newbury on Sunday evening.

He is now in a stable condition at the North Hampshire Hospital in Basingstoke.

His chest needed to be drained after his lung collapsed but it's hoped he will be well enough to leave hospital today. "It's absolutely horrific and we can't believe it's happened," said Julie Hodson, who is one of the team in charge of The Bridge.

Darren, aged 35, left Newbury on his one-man marathon last Wednesday, heading for Bath, via Hungerford and Pewsey.

His hike included overnight stops in a small two-man tent which he carried in a fully-laden rucksack.

"He was really looking forward to doing it as he's always loved walking and so far he's raised in excess of £150," said Julie Hodson.

She added: "I know he'll be glad he managed to complete the walk before this happened."

Police in Newbury have launched an investigation and are working with colleagues in Andover.

Pc Ted Reynolds from Andover CID said: "To sustain that amount of injury whilst giving up your time for charitable purposes is deplorable.

"It's appalling that somebody should be treated in this manner," he added.

Anyone with information on the attack should call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.