A MAN is planning to take his dog for a 190 mile walk for charity.

Father-of-three Mark Waters and two-year-old cocker spaniel Maddie, are following the original Alfred Wainwright Coast to Coast Route.

It goes from west to east, from St Bees on the Cumbrian coast to Robin Hood’s Bay on the East Yorkshire coast.

They are setting off on Monday to raise money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The walk is in memory of Mark’s late brother-in-law Simon Reed, who lost his battle with cancer this time last year aged 45.

Mr Waters, 43, of Annfield Plain Stanley, County Durham, said: "An immense void remains and there are only memories of a man whose life ended tragically too soon.

"It’s 20 years ago that I last backpacked for any extended period, but feel quite comfortable, confident and glad that I can do something or anything to help such a worthwhile cause, hopefully I’ll be able to draw on this for extra resolve if I do have difficulties along the way."

Mr Waters, an electrician, will be sleeping in lightweight tent during the ten or 12 day journey and carrying all of his food and equipment.

He has already raised £1,200 but is hoping to raise more for the charity.

To support him log on to http://www.justgiving.com/MarktheSpark