A CORNISH childhood bereavement charity is encouraging dog walkers to ‘Walk Every Day in May’ to support young people and their families across Cornwall.

Penhaligon's Friends, an organisation offering specialised support to more than 1,000 bereaved children and their families annually, is inviting participants to register and walk every day during May, setting a target of 30 miles, 60 miles or more.

It’s simple to sign up for the challenge online with a £10 donation, which creates a personal donation page for support from friends and family. The charity will send a special Pooch Pack to participants, including a Penhaligon's Friends dog bandana, treats and useful resources.

Penhaligon’s Friends celebrated its 30th anniversary last year with its inaugural dog walk event. Fundraising coordinator Megan Price said: “We saw lots of amazing fundraisers sharing photos of their dogs and we’d love to encourage people to do the same this year, combining enjoying fresh air and exercise with supporting an important cause.

“Every penny donated to the campaign will go towards supporting bereaved children, young people and their families across Cornwall.”

The challenge is generously sponsored by Penmellyn Veterinary Group, which operates six practices across Cornwall, from Bodmin and Padstow to Pool. Clinical director Gina Togneri said: “Our support of Penhaligon's Friends and their dog walking challenge gives us a great opportunity to be involved with this fantastic cause.

“We have first-hand experience of their amazing work through the assistance provided to some of our staff and their families during difficult times. We are also very aware of the positive impact our pets have in supporting us through such tough times.

To sign up for the event before it kicks off on Friday (May 1), participants, teams and four-legged friends should create a JustGiving page. Visiting www.justgiving.com/campaign/penhaligonsfriends-walk26 for more information.