A man is aiming to combine his passion for Devon’s special wildlife with running to raise funds for two top local conservation charities.

Craig Dunton, Loddiswell, is a landscape ecologist working across the Westcountry, and also a keen runner. In recent months he’s become a common sight along the lanes, coast path and footpaths of the South Hams. Now he’s putting all his training to good use tackling a new challenge.

On Sunday, March 25, Craig ran the length of Devon’s River Avon, from source to sea – starting at the Avon Dam on Dartmoor and finishing at Bantham, on the South Devon coast.

The river is 23 miles long and Craig plans to stay as close to its banks as possible using footpaths, bridleways, tracks and roads to navigate his way through some of Devon’s best countryside. Accompanying him every step of the way will be Izzy, Craig’s loyal, and very fit, dog.

Craig has two worthy charities which he wants his running to help. Craig said: “I’m doing this to help the wildlife conservation charities that are close to my heart; The Bat Conservation Trust and Devon Wildlife Trust.

“These charities are doing great work in protecting and enhancing the natural environment which make Devon such a special place to live.

“Healthy natural ecosystems, and the species that they support, are essential for physical and mental well-being, food crop pollination, soil and water conservation and a host of other vital ecosystem services.

“I’ve been passionate about wildlife in Devon from a young age, having grown up in the rural South Hams. Devon’s landscape supports a hugely diverse range of species and habitats, which make the county such a special place to live, for ours and for future generations.”

Devon Wildlife Trust’s Jan Coman welcomed the news of Craig’s river run: “As a charity which cares for 50 nature reserves and leads dozens of nature conservation projects we welcome Craig’s fundraising effort. His dedication, not to mention his sore feet, will make a world of difference to local wildlife. I hope lots of people will lend him their support.”

People wanting to support Craig’s fundraising run should visit his Virgin Money Giving page https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/CraigDunton or just search for ‘Craig Dunton’ at the Virgin Money Giving website.