INSPIRATIONAL guide dog owner Kevin Beesting is tackling the gruelling Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in June as part of his bid to raise at least £2,500 in 2017 to donate a name for a guide dog.

The challenge is to complete the 24 mile route through the Yorkshire Dales National Park, taking in the peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough - an ascent of 5,200ft (1,585m) within 12 hours.

Kevin, who lives in Yeadon will be accompanied by his two sons, Matthew and Adam. His guide dog, Spencer, will be part of the family support team cheering them on.

Kevin used to run marathons but had to stop when he lost his sight. Getting his guide dog Spencer enabled him to get out and about independently and to enjoy some of the activities that he used to do. Last year he took part in the 10k challenge. Now, with Spencer at his side, Kevin regularly does a couple of four mile walks each day as his build up to the three peaks challenge on June 11.

Kevin said: “I have had Spencer for two years and I can say first hand as a blind person how amazing it is to have the freedom to get out and about without having to rely on other people. Before I got him, I did not go out on my own. He has totally changed my life and I want to raise £2,500 to name a guide dog pup after my dad, Lawrence. If he was alive today, my Dad would be so proud of what Spencer is doing for me and he would be thrilled to have a dog named after him that will benefit others with sight loss.”

If you would like to sponsor Kevin and give more people with sight loss the opportunity to gain their independence with a guide dog, go www.justgiving.com/TeamKevinAndSpencer

You can read more about Kevin and Spencer’s exploits at http://blindkevindogspence.blogspot.co.uk