BARNOLDSWICK man Robert Sneath has set himself a challenge - to climb 32 Scottish mountains which have a height of more than 3,000 feet.

Robert, who took early retirement last year, will embark on his first climb of The Munros on Saturday.

He will be raising money for Christian Aid.

“This is definitely the greatest challenge I have ever set myself," said Robert. "I have never done anything like this before."

In preparation, he has tackled an 800ft climb every other day for the past few weeks.

He said: “I was absolutely shattered after a walk I did a few weeks ago, so I decided I needed to get training.

“I have only done one Munro, Ben Nevis, in the past, but I am a keen walker and I enjoy being out in the countryside. I enjoy it, even though it is hard work."

In previous years, Robert has walked The Ribble Way, Dalesway and the Dales Highway, as well as the Yorkshire Three Peaks on a regular basis.

He thinks the hardest part of his latest challenge will be the Ridge Walks, which he plans to tackle in September. Comprising two walks, the South Glen Shiel Ridge and the Five Sisters of Kintail, it will involve walking up and over 15 or 16 peaks.

Robert decided to take on the challenge after West Craven's Christian Aid walk was cancelled due to a decrease in numbers on the committee. It has been held annually for 48 years.

It is also a response to Christian Aid’s invitation to embark on the 70 Munros Challenge to mark the charity’s 70th anniversary.

Robert will walk with Christian Aid groups where he can, but will also do some extra ones "while I am kicking my heels".

He is backed by his wife, Carol, who will be accompanying him to Scotland, and is also appealing to local churches and schools to support his efforts.

To sponsor him, visit justgiving.com/Robert-Sneath