A POLICEMAN is temporarily swapping his beat for the wildlife wastes of Patagonia.

PC Barry Dixon, who is based at Stockton, Teesside, hopes his planned 100-kilometre trek across some of the remotest parts of South America will raise at least £2,500 for charity.

PC Dixon, who has in the past trekked up to 12 hours a day for nine days across Uzbekistan for charity, is calling on others to help him raise cash for The Children's Trust and the Royal United Kingdom Beneficient Association.

He is organising raffles, a golf match, white water rafting, and a mountain bike draw.

The officer is also looking for items to sell at car boot sales or as raffle prizes.

He is willing to collect goods or donations and open to any offers of services or venues to raise funds.

PC Dixon said: "I'd like to beat the total money I raised last year when I trekked through the Himalayan mountains.

"It's very satisfying to raise money for the charities and obviously it's a fabulous experience to trek in such beautiful surroundings."

PC Dixon is due to set off on his trip to Patagonia in April.

He can be contacted through Stockton police on (01642) 302226.