A FORMER British Army Major who is committed to raising awareness about mental health is embarking upon a marathon challenge at the North Pole – dressed this time as a slice of lime.

Sally Orange, from Salisbury, recently completed the World Marathon Challenge of seven marathons on seven continents completed in seven days.

She has faced her own experiences of chronic anxiety and severe depression and is determined to help others.

Sally said: “I love pushing my boundaries with challenges, but the hardest challenge I ever faced was when I was rock bottom with severe depression. I want people to know that you can get through it. Like a marathon, just take one step at a time.”

Salisbury Journal: Image Sally OrangeImage Sally Orange (Image: SSAFA)

Read more: Brief Encounter - hilariously entertaining and emotional

Committed to breaking the stigma long associated with poor mental health, Sally fundraises for the charities close to her heart. She does this by taking part in sporting events dressed as brightly coloured pieces of fruit.

If she completes the North Pole marathon, Sally will enter the Grand Slam Marathon Club which is comprised of runners who have completed a marathon distance on each of the seven continents and on the Artic Ocean at the North Pole Marathon.

Read more: Two fire crews respond to burning toaster

She said: "Now I am happy and able to enjoy life rather than to endure it. If I was to give advice to someone struggling,

"I’d suggest people listen to friends and family. Others tend to be better at noticing changes in our behaviour than ourselves and if they notice you are struggling, then you probably are.

"Talk to people. It’s the hardest thing and probably the last thing you want to do, but it does help.”

The North Pole Challenge takes place on Monday, April 10. Sally is also running the London Marathon for SSAFA the Armed Forces charity on Sunday, April 23