After an epic 54-day trek, Southampton's Mike Larcombe has successfully finished a charity walk of 2,200 kilometres on the Croatian Long Distance Trail to benefit nystagmus research.

The hike, which started on May 10, was aimed at raising funds and awareness for this eye ailment, with research done at the University of Southampton.

Navigating harsh terrain, enduring scorching heat, and climbing tough ascents, Mike found the friendliness of the Croatian people particularly memorable.

Their hospitality and support were greatly appreciated by the explorer, who felt indebted for their continuous assistance throughout the journey.

Mike said: "A massive thank you to everyone who donated, commented, liked and/or shared a post. Your encouragement and support blew my mind again.

"I appreciate you all for taking the time to acknowledge what I am trying to achieve here. You really are the reason I pushed through on the days when I really didn't want to push through."

Aside from the physical feat, Larcombe's walk was for a good cause.

Research at the University of Southampton, led by consultant ophthalmologists Drs Jay Self and Helena Lee, is looking for a cure for nystagmus.

The condition leads to involuntary eye movements and long-term vision impairment, and while no cure exists yet, the institution is working on accelerating diagnosis and treatment options.

Thanks to this incredible journey, Larcombe has raised over £3,000 to date and invites additional donations to the university’s Gift of Sight and the Nystagmus Network through his website www.walkforwigglyeyes.com.

Dr Self said: "We’re working on understanding the cause of Nystagmus in children, through genetic testing and the development of diagnostic tools, as well investigating treatments for the condition.

"We have already initiated a study using the ‘RETeval’ diagnostic tool and are currently working on an app specifically for children with nystagmus symptoms."