A CEREBAL palsy sufferer is taking his dogs for a 40-mile walk to raise funds for his church.

Ian Kirkbride, of Middleton St George, near Darlington, has raised almost £3,000 in sponsorship from village residents and businesses, but is hoping to raise a total of £3,800.

His local pub, the Fighting Cocks, also helped his fundraising by holding a Grand National sweepstake.

The 55-year-old will set off from St Lawrence's Church, Middleton St George, after the morning service on Sunday, May 5, and arrive at Newcastle Cathedral on Wednesday, May 8 after walking an average of ten miles a day.

His cross-breed dogs Poppy and Bess will accompany him through the countryside parts of the walk.

Mr Kirkbride said: "I won't be taking them through the major built-up areas because there are too many lampposts."

His walk will take him through Sedgefield, Coxhoe, along the Weardale Way to Durham, Great Lumley and Chester-le-Street then past the Angel of the North and into Newcastle.

All funds are being donated to help with running costs and overheads at St Lawrence's Church.

Being a cerebal palsy sufferer, Mr Kirkbride has no problems with walking but has some balance problems.

His only training for the walk has been his daily dog-walking duties.