A TAXI company has pledged to support a blind Bridgwater man who will walk 45 miles for charity.

Broadway Taxis are sponsoring Russell Parsons, from Cothelstone Close, to walk the River Parrett Trail from source to mouth in aid of Somerset Sight, an independent charity for visually impaired people.

Russell, 52, said: “I’m a keen walker. I’m registered blind but I’ve been walking a circuit of 60 yards in the garden and I’ve done up to 220 laps in a day.

“The neighbours must think I’ve gone mad.

“I did the same walk seven years ago and raised £10,000.

“I have had a lot of support, especially from Broadway Taxis, who have been great.”

Russell, who is treasurer and trustee of Somerset Sight, said the charity had seen its funding cut.

He added: “Everyone’s got to take a hit so now we need to fundraise through any way we can.

“I’d encourage people to help with further fundraising.”

Russell’s walk will take place from Monday, Aug-ust 27, to Saturday, September 1.

Anyone interested in joining him for a section or the whole walk should call Becky Fry on becky@somersetsight.org.uk or 01823-366147.

To sponsor Russell visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Russellparsons