TAKING a dog for ‘walkies’ will take on a whole new meaning for one man as he embarks on a charity walk.

Griff Richards is a volunteer leader at St Paul’s Hostel in Tallow Hill, Worcester, and hatched an unusual plan to raise money for homeless people.

He will be walking on the Malvern Hills tomorrow in a yellow dog costume to raise money.

He said: “I’d originally organised it as a fun day out for volunteers here at the hostel, but then I decided that I could raise some money from the walk as well.

“Any money we raise will go towards the counselling and life skills project we run at the hostel.

“All too often, homeless people become isolated from society, and the project is intended to equip them with the skills they need to re-integrate with society.

“We’ve got this dog costume and I just thought it would be a bit of fun it I wore it.

“It will make the walk more visible as well.”

Walkers will meet at 10am in the car park at British Camp, and the walk itself will be to the Worcestershire Beacon and back to British Camp, a distance of some nine miles.

The walk will be led by Carl Flint, of Malvern, author of several pictorial guides to the hills, and walkers will stop at various points of interest along the way.

“Please join us and help the homeless,” Mr Richards said.

“There are sponsorship forms available but if you are unable to get sponsored then please do come along for the ride anyway.

“It ought to be an interesting day.”

Walkers are urged to wear sensible shoes and bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.

A first aider will be on hand and a first aid kit present in case of minor injuries.

Mr Griffiths can be sponsored by going online to justgiving. com/Gruffydd-Richards.