A WEST Devon man took on an extreme Dartmoor challenge in a jaw-dropping eight days in aid of two local charities.

Robbie Evans, a self-confessed outdoor adventurer, completed the ‘All The Tors Challenge Walk’ of 187 miles across Dartmoor and over 119 tors through all weathers.

The challenge was first completed by Emily Woodhouse in ten days in September 2018 and was devised as a way to celebrate her 25th year and Dartmoor Rescue’s 50th year in existence. The challenge walk encompasses every tor on the Dartmoor map that can be reached without crossing private land.

Robbie, from Lydford, completed the extreme challenge on his own in one continuous circuit for seven nights and eight days in aid of Devon Air Ambulance and Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team Tavistock (DSRT).

As a former serviceman, Robbie, 42, enjoys the great outdoors and loves Dartmoor, regularly taking his two boys to Widgery Cross to explore the local surroundings.

‘I took on the challenge as it was a challenge relating to Dartmoor which is a place that I love. We are an outdoorsy family and I ride a motorcycle and I have friends that are horse riders so that is why I chose DSRT and Devon Air Ambulance as the charities to benefit from the fundraising,’ said Robbie who runs his own business Evans Plumbing and Heating.

Starting the trek on Sunday, August 16 at North Hessary Tor, Robbie averaged 24 miles per day using only a map and compass.

Robbie carried a heavy bergen which contained all the clothes and equipment he would need to survive along the journey, including his gas stove, candles, radio, water bottles and food, mostly consisting of Wayfarer boil in a bags.

On his last day, Sunday, August 23, he was met in the afternoon by his wife, two children, friends and his uncle at the final tor — King’s Tor.

When he finally arrived home with sore feet and legs, Robbie thanked everyone for their donations, support and well wishes.

As the Times went to press, Robbie had raised more than £850 for the charities. If anyone would like to donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/team/Robbie-Evans