A GRANDAD from Darwen who has raised thousands and thousands of pounds for local and national charities over the last 30 years is to mark turning 66-years-old with a last “towering” feat that will raise funds for Rosemere Cancer Foundation.

Neil Mashiter has set himself a £2,000 target for walking from Bank Top’s Tesco Express, to Blackpool Tower on June 26.

The 27-mile trek will be a feat of endurance for Neil, who has had both hips replaced and knee surgery after running marathons and undertaking other gruelling long distance walks and bike rides for causes such as Macmillan Cancer Support, the Motor Neurone Disease Association, North West Air Ambulance and East Lancs Hospice among others.

Accompanying him on the walk will be his proud daughter and mum-of-three Leanne Wilson-Mayor, who also lives in Darwen.

Leanne said: “My dad is amazing. We are all so proud of him. He has been raising money for charity through various events for as long as I can remember. He has run the London Marathon twice, once just after having his knee surgery. A couple of years ago, he was diagnosed with the early stages of prostate cancer but he refuses to retire. He is beginning to find long distance walks, especially uphill stages, a bit of a struggle now so this is going to be his final endurance event.”

As well as Leanne, Neil will be joined en route by a trio of friends in Lee Swinhoe, John Kingy and Colin Harrington and a trio of work colleagues, Michael Carter, Sully Mall and Janet Tabiner. His other son-in-law, James Hamilton, will also be following the walking party in a van to provide back-up. To support Neil, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/teamhope21