A massive £1,700 has been raised by a man from Ulverston, and his dog, on an arduous 200+mile wild camping hike.
Roy Harkins, 63, an ex-tradesman and HGV driver, set upon the 14-day challenge at Offas-Dyke national trail path from October 1 with his Jack Russell dog Morse.
The route passed through no less than eight different counties and crossed the border between England and Wales over 20 times with the pair wild camping in various locations - occasionally staying in a B&B when needed.
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Roy, who is also a carer for his 88 year-old friend, said: "It was tough as I'm 63 not 18 and I also have COPD and two slipped discs."
"I persevered and did it for my dad who has vascular dementia. I did it for everyone really as it's almost money in the bank, so to speak, with one in three people likely to develop some sort of dementia.
"I did it in just under 14 days and averaged around 15 miles a day which amounted to just over 200 miles in total.
"I have to say, this challenge really restored my faith humanity. Not only because of the donations received but it's just the kindness of strangers.
"I was put up in a million pound farming house in Cwm Dyserth in Rhyl with Egyptian cotton sheets, a little only lady made me some beans on toast when I asked for directions and on my last day, I did my last five miles to the end with a lovely woman called Nikki, whom I met after busting through her garden.
"One hell of a character she was, offered me coffee and crumpets with marmite, then bought me cakes on coffee on Prestatyn seafront.
"I hope we’ll rub shoulders again someday.
"I'm very grateful to the FourPence Cafe & Shop in Ulverston too who raised an amazing £790 for the walk.
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"I did have a few unfortunate moments, such as when I came across a bull whilst cutting across a field. I shouted 'ay, no nonsense' and it actually ran away - must have been the accent.
"I lost my Berghaus jacket too which cost a good few pounds however, if I don't get it back, I hope whoever finds it gets some enjoyment from it - I have a kind of Buddhist approach to things after this.
Roy and Morse are no strangers to outdoor challenges with the pair taking on the Coast to Coast walk last year raising almost £700 for Alzheimer's Society.
Roy always camps responsibly carrying his equipment and food leaving no trace behind.
This year, Morse only made it 61 miles before he had to retire.
"It was his little legs, Roy said. "They were tired so my ex came to pick him up.
"I was on my own wild camping then so I missed him - not least because he's very warm!"
"I was sent a picture of him sitting on the couch in the warm and I thought 'you traitor'."
Roy and Morse's Just Giving page is still open and is taking donations here.
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