A KEEN walker has embarked on a 1,500 mile pilgrimage from Worcester to Spain, to raise funds for a national mobility charity.

Gareth Thomas will carry a replica of the medieval Worcester Pilgrim's staff, which was discovered in Worcester Cathedral, on his journey.

He plans to raise £10,000 for Whizz-Kidz and started his journey to Santiago de Compostela from Worcester Cathedral on Friday.

The pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia started after the discovery of the tomb of James the Apostle in the early 9th Century.

In the 12th Century it rivalled Jerusalem and Rome as centres of Christian pilgrimage.

"The Santiago pilgrimage has seen a huge revival in recent years and is very popular with walkers, mountain bikers and those on horseback," he said.

"Most people walk the Spanish section, from the Pyrenees to Santiago, so the extra challenge of walking all the way from England is exciting.

"I love walking and it is a privilege to help support disabled children move forward with their lives."

Mr Thomas, from Canterbury, who is a member of the Confraternity of St James - the association of devoted Santiago pilgrims, will keep a regular blog throughout his journey.

To keep up-to-date visit www.whizz-kidz-pilgrim.blogspot.com To sponsor Mr Thomas log on to www.justgiving.com/whizz-kidz.org.uk