A father and son who spontaneously decided to go on an adventure ended up trekking the Great Wall of China, raising £10,000 in the process.

Mind control specialist Michael Caroll from the neuro linguistic programming academy (NLP) in South Croydon took part in the walk to raise funds for the National Autistic Society (NAS).

His 21-year-old son Rowan was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome when he was just a small boy.

Mr Carroll said: “As a father I have watched and coached Rowan through primary school, secondary school and college.

“Way back in February I decided I wanted to have and adventure with my eldest son.

“We decided to walk the Great Wall of China in October to raise funds for the NAS.”

To raise sponsorship Mr Carroll ran workshops and webinars on a donation basis and asked around business contacts, friends and family and is close to the £10,000 target he set.

Preparing for the arduous trek was no mean feat either. Mr Carroll starting walking the 14-mile round trip from his house to work everyday in the months leading up to the trip.

Mr Carroll said: “Rowan at 21 is in great shape, loves walking and just walked more than usual.

“One thing I had not expected before I left was the camaraderie and connection that occurred in the group.

“Thirty people took part, raising money for 16 different charities and most were walking for a charity close to their hearts.

“Everyone was pushing themselves so far beyond their comfort zone.

“Two girls, trekking for a cancer charity wore a t-shirt with a different person's name on everyday, a friend or a relative they had lost.”

Donations can still be received at justgiving.com/MichaelCarroll and all money goes to the NAS.