He's travelled more than 200,000 miles on the Amtrak, an intercity rail service which connects the United States, but Malcolm Metcalfe has just returned from his last and most important journey on the trains.

The 80-year-old, who lives in Gorleston, travelled 10,300 miles in 26 days to raise money for the the new East Coast Hospice (ECH).

Mr Metcalfe was overwhelmed with the generosity of American's to help raise money for the hospice which is aiming to begin building in late 2016.

So far the avid traveller, who has visited 51 countries, has raised nearly £3,500.

He said: 'People were very good and I found that in America they were very kind. People bought me dinners on the train and I have to now email them all to tell them I have arrived back safe. I'd like to thank all the people who donated. I really appreciate it.'

Mr Metcalf first caught the travelling bug when he was 19 and bed bound with a serious illness-vowing to travel when he got better- and has gone on two write two books about his travels.

He added: 'My best memory was going through Montana and North Dakota and it was the start of fall. The trees were all bright golds, browns and oranges. It was a sight. It will be my last big train journey in America, it was a wonderful experience. '

Jeff Wood, Community Fundraiser at East Coast Hospice, said: 'We are thrilled with the money he raised for us. He's such an inspiring gentleman and a great bloke.'

Mr Metcalf has also been awarded the most inspiring senior citizen award from Age Concern Great Yarmouth after being nominated by ECH for his fundraising adventure.

For more information about the ECH, visit http://www.eastcoasthospice.co.uk

Have you raised money for charity? Email rebecca.murphy@archant.co.uk