A FLINTSHIRE man is gearing up to put his best foot forward for a three-day hike for charity.

Stewart Allen will be walking Pilgrim's Way on May 25 and faces a 134 mile trail from Bardsey Island to Bassingwerk Abbey.

The challenge will see him travel through some of North Wales' most famous landscapes, with the ancient route passing the foot of Mount Snowdon.

All proceeds raised will go towards Hft, a national learning disability charity.

The 62-year-old said: "I’m excited to be taking on my tenth fundraising walk, which is shaping up to be the toughest one yet. There are plenty of long uphill stretches and the trek is set to take around 44 hours in total.

"Luckily my friends and family are hoping to keep me company for the final few miles. It’s great to be raising money for a worthwhile cause that makes such a positive impact in the local community."

This year marks Stewart’s tenth annual fundraising walk. He started taking on walking challenges for various charities after finding exercise to be an escape from his busy role running a pet shop.

The keen walker now packs in regular long and hilly walks and aims to cover a mammoth 1,500 miles a year to maintain his fitness. As he approaches a decade of raising money for charity, he’s calling for support from Flintshire locals by fundraising at his shop and on social media.

All money raised will go towards new sensory equipment for Hft’s service in Flintshire, which supports 270 people locally with day services and work opportunities. Sensory equipment at the service will allow for people supported at the service to develop and engage their senses in a safe and stress-free environment.

Patricia Worsnop, Divisional Fundraising Officer at Hft, added: "We are delighted that Hft is the chosen charity for this milestone trek. Dedicated fundraisers like Stewart are crucial in helping us to continue our work supporting people with learning disabilities to live the best life possible.

"The new sensory equipment at our Flintshire service which he’s raising funds for will make a huge difference to the lives of people we support. We’re wishing Stewart the very best of luck."

To donate, visit Stewart’s fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/stewart-chrysalispets.