A POLITICAL hopeful has returned triumphant from a trek along the Great Wall of China — having raised more than £5,000 for charity.

Colne-based Andrew Stephenson, the Conservatives’ parliamentary candiate for Pendle, was collecting cash for Crimestoppers, The Children’s Society and Cancer Research UK during his eight-day expedition.

Months of training went into the walk, which saw a 17-strong team, including Andrew, complete a 100-kilometre stretch of the famous landmark.

He said: “I am very grateful to all my friends, supporters and local businesses across Pendle who sponsored me.

“I had originally set my fund raising target at £3,000, so to raise over £5,000 underlines how generous some people have been.”

Late donations can still be made to his appeal total via his website at www.bmycharity.com/andrewstephenson