A MOTHER and son took on the challenge of a picturesque 27-mile Nordic style trek along the beautiful Jurassic coastline of Dorset.

The pair, Kym Smith, of Haydock and her son Daniel, who lives in Billinge, decided to enter the event following the death of their mother and grandmother Hilda Fletcher, who died aged 87 in January.

The circular walk, which was part of the Purbeck Nordic Walking Festival, involved 250 entrants, but just 36 people signed up for the 27-mile distance.

Kym was introduced to Nordic walking - walking in which poles are used - in May this year by Nordic Walking UK, and when she heard about the festival she began training for it with her son.

Kym said: "We missed my mum so much that we both decided we had to do something to remember her by.

"We also thought it would be much appreciated and motivating if we tried to raise some money for Age UK - a charity which aims to provide companionship, advice and support to older people and their loved ones.

"During the walk we endured 3,000 feet of difficult climbs, across various terrains and uneven paths, which was challenging, but then we had glorious weather and the entire route provided the most spectacular views, which in the long term, helped to combat moments of fatigue and any aches and pains we encountered.

"We encouraged each other, every step of the way - some 66,000 steps according to our pedometers - and we were absolutely determined to cross the finish line."

Kym added: "After having completed the marathon walk, I am now looking at doing a 10k run - another thing that I have never done in my life!"

The pair have raised more than £700 for Age UK to date and anyone who would like to donate can go to justgiving.com/DanSmithandKymSmith-walkingmarathonchallenge.