A FUNDRAISER from Chester undertaking a unique charity challenge will pass through Okehampton today (Thursday).

On July 4, freelance graphic designer Ollie Mason set out on a 1,000 mile walk from John O'Groats to Land's End carrying 20 litres of water unaided on his head and shoulders. He has trained for almost two years to complete the challenge, which aims to emulate the daily struggle faced by millions of people across the world who are forced to walk huge distances to have access to a water supply. Ollie is aiming to complete his challenge on September 1, and will pass through Okehampton as he begins the final week of his 60 day challenge.

Ollie said: 'The purpose of The Water Run is to raise awareness of global water poverty. I made a conscious decision to walk but every day millions of women and children have no alternative but to trek huge distances to collect water simply to survive. When the going got tough, thinking of them helped push me on.'

Among Ollie's biggest challenges so far was climbing Ben Nevis while battling heavy rain and bad weather. It has not been all bad though - Ollie enjoyed the Water Jam concert in Battersea Park organised by Music4Children and supported by model Elle MacPherson. For more information on Ollie's herculean efforts, visit http://www.thewaterrun.com">www.thewaterrun.com