AN occupational therapist from Clitheroe is to undertake a tough horse trek in British Columbia to raise cash for charity.

Pam Toothill, who is head of occupational therapy at Clitheroe Community Hospital, plans to tackle the Chilcotin Mountain Horse Trek Challenge in the Canadian state in September to raise cash for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

The gruelling 10-day challenge takes in some of the most difficult and dangerous terrain in British Columbia and will involve at least seven hours a day in the saddle.

Pam will be entering remote mountainous areas, some of them snow-covered, and everything will have to be carried on packhorse.

The former Burnley High School pupil has to find £2,500 to take part in the trek and has already raised £500 from an 85-mile St Bedes to Kirkby Stephen sponsored walk.

She also plans to hold a car boot sale, auction of promises and street collection before embarking on her tough journey.

Pam, of Clitheroe, has been a keen equestrian since childhood and has two horses, Johnny and Swift, which she rides three or four times a week.

She said: "I feel strongly about the Guide Dogs for the Blind. Guide dogs give independence to people who have lost their sight and I hope that I will get a lot of support from the local community for this very good cause."

Leigh Griffin, chief executive of Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Primary Care Trust, which runs Clitheroe Community Hospital, said: "We wish Pam every success. I am proud of her commitment to this cause and hope that she is successful in securing a high level of sponsorship."

If you would like to sponsor Pam, contact Judith Roberts on 01200 441776.