A LOTHERSDALE teenager completed an arduous 31-mile walk and run along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to help people with a little-known illness.

Jessica Tidswell, 16, a pupil at South Craven School, finished the route from Leeds to Skipton at the end of last month. (August 31)

She did it to raise cash for Prader Willi Syndrome Association UK.

The charity supports people with this rare genetic condition which causes a wide range of problems, including a permanent feeling of hunger that can lead to dangerous weight gain, restricted growth, reduced muscle tone and learning difficulties.

Miss Tidswell explained that the six-year-old son of her father's best friend, who lives in Keighley and is called Rohan Dunlop, has this illness.

She did the 31 miles in nine hours, and ran for the final two miles.

"It went well, though I was very tired by the end," she said. "It's the longest distance I've ever done, and my knees started giving way a bit, though I was able to keep going.

"My gran, brother, sister and a friend of my sister met me in Kildwick, then accompanied me to the end and my dad met me when I finished in Skipton."

Speaking shortly after completing the 31 miles, Miss Tidswell said she had so far raised just over £600.

People can still donate and boost her fundraising total even further. They can call Miss Tidswell on 0748 2213935, or e-mail tidswelljess14@gmail.com to offer their own contributions.