A CUMBRIAN man is walking the entire length of the country to raise money for an eyecare charity after his sight was saved following surgery.

John Barrett, of Allithwaite, will embark on a journey of a lifetime when he walks approximately 1,189 miles from Lands’ End to John O’Groats in April.

Setting off from Lands End in Cornwall on April 1, John hopes to complete the route by the end of June.

He aims to raise as much money as possible for Sightsavers UK, an international charity who work to prevent avoidable blindness, as well as fighting disease and supporting equality for women, girls and people with disabilities.

It comes after his sight was saved following successfully surgery to treat glaucoma.

“I’m lucky to live in a country with an amazing National Health Service so I was able to benefit from treatment for glaucoma and cataracts meaning I am still able to see,” he said.

“All over the poorer parts of the world, thousands of people lose their sight because of treatable conditions, so Sightsavers was an obvious charity to support.

“They fund and support projects in Africa and across the world that deliver treatment to people who would otherwise face a life without sight.

"Whilst I enjoy the views along the way any donation will help Sightsavers ensure someone else can continue to enjoy the view where they are."

John will follow the South West Coastal Path, Offa’s Dyke Path and some of the Scottish long distance footpaths whilst passing through some of the most stunning scenery in the country.

He is also no stranger to long distance walking having already completed the 190-mile Coast to Coast walk and the 630-mile South West Coastal Path, as well as a number of other long distance trails in Scotland.

To sponsor him on his epic challenge, click here.