AN annual two-day walk across Dartmoor has raised a splendid £7,200 for charity — bringing the grand total to an incredible £107,688.93 since the event was started in 1991.

The Dartmoor Challenge was initiated by Steve Parker, of Princetown, and was inspired by the effort and spirit shown by participants during the Jubilee Challenge — the event organised alongside Ten Tors for young people with disabilities.

The money has been donated to cancer charities, including CLIC Sargent and the Derriford Children's Cancer Service (DCCS).

Steve said: 'It was only meant to be a one-off thing — but each year, we'd say "Let's do another one!" and we've just kept going.

'I've already signed up to do one for 2012, so we'll go for at least another two years!'

Steve said 45 walkers took part in this year's Dartmoor Challenge, which involves moorland treks of around 30 miles over two days.

He said he was very grateful for the support of everyone who had participated and made donations in any way, in particular to Cross Country Trains, First Great Western, the Plume of Feathers at Princetown and Steve Langdon Transport.

Graham Parkinson, of DCCS, received the cheque for £7,200 at a presentation last month, at which he explained to supporters the work carried out by the charity.

Graham said: 'Without your support each year we would not be in a position to offer varied and much-needed help, and with this in mind, we acknowledge, with gratitude, your very significant donations that enable us to continue to develop our valuable and varied service.

'Please accept our very sincere thanks on behalf of DCCS but more importantly, on behalf of the many children and their families who will benefit from your very kind and extremely generous donation.'

Next year's Dartmoor Challenge — the 20th anniversary event — will take place over the weekend of June 11 and 12. Day one will see walkers trek from Okehampton to Princetown via Fur Tor and Great Mis Tor. The following day they will travel from Princetown to Ivybridge, via Nun's Cross.

There will be a choice available on both days of a ten-mile route for new or inexperienced walkers.

For further information, call Dartmoor Challenge secretary Mrs L Compton on 07528 329372.