The England team's supporters club, the Barmy Army, has asked Robin Moore to take up the challenge which will feature on Channel 4's Cricket Show.

England play seven Test matches this summer, against New Zealand and South Africa, and Mr Moore will walk between London, Manchester, Nottingham, Leeds and Birmingham.

The exact structure of the challenge has yet to be drawn up, but Mr Moore is excited about the chance to promote his fund-raising exploits to the nation.

The Cricket Show is a weekly programme which airs on Channel 4 during the summer to tie in with England's international matches.

But before all that, the Oundle man has a charity challenge in New Zealand, which is due to start next week, to tie in with England's tour of the country.

The 49-year-old will set off from Rotarua in New Zealand's North Island, before making his way around the island visiting towns including New Plymouth, Woodford and Waverley.

He said: "It is hoped that the walk will be completed at Hamilton in time for the first Test match between New Zealand and England on March 5.

"The walk is aimed at raising the profile of the New Zealand Cancer Society, as well as awareness and fund-raising opportunities, using media coverage where possible.

"My fund-raising team in the UK will also ensure that the walk benefits a British cancer charity too."

During the Test series Mr Moore will promote his book, The Robin Moore New Zealand Walk of 2002, which commemorates his walk spanning both islands of the country, from "The Cape to the Bluff".

Last year, Mr Moore carried out an epic walk through the UK, raising more than £4,000.

Despite having to cope with excruciatingly painful blisters on both feet, the 49-year-old managed to trek from Limerick in Ireland, down to Exeter, in Devon, in less than one month.

The money has now been shared out between Cancer Research UK, Children's Hospice South West and Cornwall Hospice Care.

Mr Moore's other feats have included a 4,000-mile trek around Great Britain in 125 days, 940 miles from Land's End to John O'Groats in 27 days and a 620-mile walk across South Africa.

To help fund his walks, Mr Moore has written a series of travel books about his achievements, as well as walking guides.

n Anyone who would like to sponsor him, should visit his website at www.robin-moore.co.uk.