A DOG lover has taken on the Wainwright's Challenge to help raise vital funds for Wainwright's Shelter.

Paul Liptrot from Wigan, crossed no less than eight peaks in one day to raise £1,170 in aid of the animal shelter.

He took on the challenge which consisted of covering 17 miles over eight mountains.

Paul was driven by his love for animals and and his desire to help the shelter through these difficult times.

He completed the challenge, which is viewed as one of the most enduring challenges anywhere in the UK, on September 5.

He said: “I found the challenge online earlier this year and as I love spending time in the Lake District and hiking I thought it would be something good to challenge myself against, whilst also bagging a few peaks all in the same day.

"When I’ve undertaken sponsored challenges before, I’ve looked to raise money for animal charities as I love animals and always wish I could do more to help.

"I reasoned that as I was taking the challenge in Cumbria then a local animal shelter should benefit. I saw the incredible work they have done for so many years now, it was an easy decision then to pick them as my chosen charity.

"On the morning of the hike Marion brought some of the dogs from the shelter down to meet me before we set off.

"It was a great boost on a wet Cumbrian morning. During the course of the day as the weather, the varying terrain, numerous ascents, and descents took their toll, I kept in mind the dogs I’d met that morning and reminded myself that I was supporting them.

"We covered over 17 miles on the day with over 1,600 metres total ascent.

"Along the way we ticked off Rossett Pike, Allen Crag, Scafell Pike, Great End, Broad Crag, Ill Crag, Eask Pike and Bowfell.”

This huge undertaking was all in aid of the cats and dogs at Animal Rescue Cumbria, otherwise known as The Wainwright Shelter, named after Alfred Wainwright, the Charity’s founder, and benefactor.

Animal Rescue Cumbria Manager, Marion Yates said: “We are honoured to be Paul’s chosen charity for this Charity Challenge and most grateful to him and everyone who has given so generously to help care for our cats and dogs.”

Donations are still open.