DARTMOOR Search and Rescue Team Tavistock is launching the very first 11 Tors Challenge Walk next month to help raise much needed funds for the charity — and members encourage local residents to rise to the challenge.

The inaugural walk will be held on Saturday, September 16 and is open to everyone — but places need to be booked by closing date August 31.

There are two walk lengths to choose from: the main 11 Tors Challenge Walk, which is approximately 11 miles long; and the Family Challenge Walk, which is around five miles. Both challenges start and end at Princetown.

Josephine Collingwood, a member of DSR Tavistock, said: ‘This is the first time we are doing this and we want local people to be involved and get behind the Tavistock team and raise some money.

‘The team has put together a brilliant route that shows off some of the best scenery on Tavistock’s doorstep as well as providing a good dose of wilderness for those of adventurous spirit.

‘DSRT Tavistock decided that 2017 was a good year to start what they hoped will be an annual charity walk.

‘Like all of Mountain Rescue throughout England and Wales, the DSRT Tavistock is made up entirely of volunteers who have to fundraise in order to continue the team’s work. Not only do team members rescue people from Dartmoor and its farming hinterland, they also perform searches with the police for missing persons and the vulnerable.’

The route will see 11 tors — North Hessary, Rundlestone, Great Mis, Little Mis, Foggintor, King’s Tor, Ingra, Leeden, Black, Hart and South Hessary.

To take part, a team of between four and six people need to register online at www.dsrt-tavistock.org.uk before the deadline.