One boy and his dog are raising money, with a target of £250, for Eskdale and Ennerdale Foxhounds Kennels by walking the seven mile route around Ennerdale Water.

Jake John (JJ) Eeles’ love of dogs has driven the eight-year-old to raise money for Eskdale and Ennerdale Foxhounds, using his enjoyment of walking with his six hounds to do so.

The passionate youngster will be completing his hefty hike on Saturday, March 2, with his favourite hound, Marksman, as his only companion.

The Egremont boy has been training and exercising his hounds since he was four years old, following in his granddad’s footsteps.

“He’s always adored his hounds,” JJ’s mum, Christine, said. “He chose to do this walk off his own back - he just decided, ‘I want to raise money for the hounds’, so he’s doing it.”

The St. Bridget’s Primary School student’s favourite pastime is wandering the fells with his hounds, who stick by his side like glue.

JJ’s proud mum commented, “he never has them on the lead, but they never leave him, and they’re always looking out for each other.”

Although Jake John walks for hours, the seven-mile-long route around Ennerdale will still be a great task for the young man, and he hopes to raise as much money as he can to support the hounds and kennels he cares so much about.

The money raised by JJ and his furry companion, Marksman, will go towards the hounds’ food, vet bills, and general running of the kennel - something close to the young foxhound enthusiast’s heart.