A DETERMINED man who set about walking 86 miles in aid of charity before his 86th birthday has completed his challenge weeks ahead of schedule.

Charles Hanson, 85, has raised a staggering £10,000 for Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice, after people across north Cumbria heard his story.

Realising the financial difficulties faced by the charity, he set about walking a mile a day. But he sooner realised he was on track to tick off his 86th mile far sooner than his birthday on December 29.

He said it felt “wonderful” to complete his final mile in Wetheral, where he lives, yesterday.

“I thought that I probably would be ahead of schedule. I know I can walk a least a mile and a half a day or even two miles.

“At this time of year there are many charities asking people for money. I was keen to get it done in good time so I could get the funding to the hospices before Christmas.

“I think [the amount raised is] a surprise to everyone, including me. People have been so generous in each and every respect.”

Charles plans to continuing walking and clocking up the miles until his birthday, but has decided not to set another target as such.

He has thanked all those who have donated and the hospices for their support. He was joined yesterday by the charities chief executive Patricia Livsey, chair of trustees Malcolm Iredale, vice chair of trustees Christine Weaving and volunteer fundraiser Don Marks.

To support Charles’ efforts for EVH and Jigsaw call Charles directly on 01228 560337 or contact the fundraising team on 01228 810801.

Visit www.edenvalleyhospice.org or www.jigsawhospice.org to donate online and include ‘Dr Charles’ Walk’ in the message section to allocate the funds to Charles’ challenge.

Those who have made pledges are asked to make their donations.