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Reporter's 630-mile hike in memory of editor

A former Merseyside reporter is putting his best foot forward next week in a bid to walk 630 miles for a cancer charity.

Freelancer Dave Thackeray, who used to work for the Southport Visiter, is attempting the epic South West Coastal Path for Cancer Research in memory of former Visiter editor Sue Kenyon who died aged 53 from the disease in 2001.

The 34-year-old estimates the trek will take him sevens weeks with the route starting in the Somerset town of Minehead, running through Devon and Cornwall, before finishing in Poole, Dorset.

During the course of the expedition he will climb over 35,000 metres – almost four times the height of Everest – and cross 17 rivers.

It is the longest-distance path in the UK and completed by fewer than 100 people every year.

Dave told the Visiter: “My family has lost so many special friends to cancer – people like Sue – who showed incredible bravery in battling the disease.

“There are many more remarkable people who continue to fight cancer today, and I’m humbled by their courage.

“This big walk is only a small step, but any money I raise will be put to incredible use in helping find a cure for cancer.

“I have no doubt that as the challenge progresses each of the miles will be big ones on the feet.”

  • To sponsor Dave visit his online fundraising page can tabs on his progress at his blog.