A VETERINARY nurse from Preston will face the challenge of a lifetime when she embarks on a sponsored trek along Hadrian's Wall next month to raise cash for animal charity, the PDSA.

Kathryn Thompson, 31, of Malvern Road, Frenchwood, will go walkies along the Scotland/England border with dogs, Jess, a cross breed, and lurcher, Molly, from July 22-24.

She will be accompanied by friends and fellow veterinary nurses, Amy Stephens, 27, from Ashton in Makerfield, and Lisa Williams, 25, from Wigan, who work with Kathyrn at the Rutland House Veterinary Hospital, St Helens, Mersyside.

Now Kathryn, who has worked at the veterinary hospital for three years, is appealing for support from local animal lovers to help raise the £325 sponsorship she needs to start her challenge.

The funds raised will provide vital free veterinary treatment to the sick and injured pets of people in need.

It was a love of animals, coupled with a joy of walking, that motivated the team to sign up for the PDSA trek.

"As veterinary nurses and pet owners, we are always aware of how important it is to maintain the health of pets, as well as provide aid to people unable to afford private veterinary care," said Kathryn. I hope the local community will sponsor our trek and make a donation. No matter how small, every contribution will make a difference."

The trio and their canine companions will complete a 30-mile route, of high and steep terrain, starting at Lanercost Priory, near the Scottish border in Cumbria, then on to the remaining sections of Hadrian's Wall, cutting through Northumberland National Park.

People wishing to sponsor Kathryn can send a cheque for her attention, payable to PDSA at 54 Cowley Hill Lane, St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 2AW.