KEIGHLEY man Paul Marley walked the Dales Way for charity dressed as a flamingo.

He was in the pink for 80 miles from Ilkley to Bowness-on-Windermere as he raised money for the mental health charity MIND.

Paul, who lives in Damems and has worked at Airedale Hospital for 15 years, has already raised around £700, and hopes to repeat the hike next year with friends.

He said: “The walk was an awe-inspiring experience and has given me a new outlook on life. I made friends along the way which was definitely a highlight– a downside was the weather but me and my flamingo made it through.

“I am hoping to make this an annual tradition, but hopefully walking with a group of people all in fancy dress next year. I am hoping to involve Airedale Hospital with fundraising and the walk itself.

“Once again I will walk for MIND as I feel walking has really helped with my mental health and I hope I can inspire others to do the same.”

Posted in bed-and-breakfast accommodation along the route, and took four days on the walk.

Paul is still awaiting donations from some sources, and his fundraising site is still active.

Visit gofundme.com and type Paul Marley flamingo into the search box, in order to donate.

This year the Dales Way route is celebrating its 50th anniversary.