A RECORD shop boss is set to walk 26 miles in memory of his late father Henry in aid of East Lancashire Hospice.

Paul McGowan, 46, will complete the marathon distance across the Yorkshire Dales, despite never having done any serious walking before.

Last year he ran the Jane Tomlinson 10km race in Blackburn, raising £1,000 and he hopes to raise a similar amount this time with his latest challenge.

Mr McGowan, who runs Townsend Records, in Clitheroe and lives in Baxenden, said: “I have not done anything like this.

“Last year I jumped into my training, but this is a big step up. I’ve never done much walking before but I’m looking forward to the challenge.

“Last year a lot of people contributed spectacularly towards my total.”

East Lancashire Hospice is one of the official charity partners of the event, on August 14, along with Pendleside Hospice in Reedley.

The 26-mile marathon walk begins in Settle and is over varied terrain, including Malham Dale and two of the three peaks, Pen-y-ghent and Ingleborough.

More than 1,200 people have already signed up for one of four in the inaugural Jane Tomlinson Yorkshire Walking Festival.

Walks of four, five, 14 and 26 miles are taking place.

To sponsor Paul visit the website below or call 07800 812318.