The challenge walk will raise funds for the Rossendale and Pendle MRT, which covers the Lancashire moorlands

A mountain rescue leader will be among walkers tackling a gruelling 68km (42-mile) challenge next month to raise funds for his team.

Andy Simpson, team leader with the Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team, will join fellow hikers on the route around the Rossendale valley next month.

And the rescue team is on the lookout for walkers who want to take part in the Rossendale Way in a Day event, or the shorter (almost) Half Way in a Day, covering 30km (18 miles) on the Lancashire moors.

Proceeds from the challenge, which costs £25 to enter, will go to the volunteer rescue team’s funds.

Mark Wakeman of the team said: “The event is always popular so we recommend pre-registration, although we will never turn people away on the day.

“The team will be out providing cover, water and food on checkpoints around the route. Also included in the entry fee is a pie and peas dinner in the pub afterwards.”

The event takes place on 2 July and more details and an entry form are on the Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team website.

Teams of up to six can enter the full event for £100 and there are reduced rates for the half event.