For most, taking part in the Medway Mile will be easy – but veteran Olympian Paul Nihill has described it as his Everest.

The 76-year-old retired race walker, who represented Britain in four successive Games, is still recovering after spending two months in hospital.

But he is determined to cross the finish line tonight (Friday).

Mr Nihill has been battling an infection which affected his balance and caused him to suffer from delirium and anxiety.

He spent eight weeks at Medway Maritime and was discharged only a few weeks ago.

But as his daughter Clare Denness wheeled him out of the ward, she set him a challenge to help him get back on his feet – walking the Medway Mile.

She said: “I was trying to get my dad back. I wanted to set him a goal and give him something to focus on.”

Mr Nihill, who lives in Rochester, has been out walking every other day – even in the soaring heat – accompanied by his daughter.

He has gradually built up from a short stroll around the block, to walking for 25 minutes.

Mrs Denness added: “It has really helped him. You can see the change in his face. His mind is so much better too. He looks forward to our walks.”

The 49-year-old will be joining her dad on the route through Rochester, with other family members cheering them on.

Mr Nihill said: “It is a bit of a gamble. I’m doing it because I want to, not necessarily because I should be doing it.

“It should be a piece of cake but it won’t be for me. It is going to be hard, I’m no spring chicken.

“It means something to me to take part. I won’t be chasing records, I just want to reach that finish line. It is a giant challenge for me, it’s my Everest.”

The Medway Mile starts outside Rochester Cathedral and weaves through the town to the finishing line in Rochester Castle Gardens. Participants can run, jog or walk.

It will start with a children’s race at 5pm, followed by a mascot race and a competitive race.

There will then be a warm-up before the main race at 8pm. The evening will come to a close with fireworks at 9.30pm.