A COUPLE whose young daughter’s life was transformed by her assistance dog are tackling a 109-mile walk along the Cleveland Way to support the charity that made it possible.

Kevin and Emma Birch, from Barden near Leyburn, are walking the K9 Challenge in aid of national assistance dog charity Support Dogs.

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The charity provided and trained Labrador Chess for their 13-year-old daughter Molly, who has cerebral palsy.

Chess enables Molly to live more independently and safely, providing practical support around the family farmhouse, and helping Molly with her balance when they go out.

They set off from Helmsley on Monday and are set to arrive at the North Yorkshire Water Park in near Scarborough, on Sunday, September 26. Daughter Molly with Chess will join them for the final leg of the walk.

Emma said: “We’re in awe of what Support Dogs do. Chess gives Molly confidence and pride, and it’s very touching to see her able to do things independently without an adult helping her. 

"Her future is so much brighter because of Chess and Support Dogs.

"We’re very happy to be able to give something back to the charity that has given our family so much.”

Kevin and Emma and members of the Barden Clay Shoot in North Yorkshire have raised £100,000 for Support Dogs over the past six years.

They are being joined on the walk by clay shoot committee member Mike O’Hara and family friend Kerry Boddy.

To donate to the cause, visit JustGiving.

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