Cambridgeshire adventurer who climbed Everest sets off on 16-marathon trek
Mitch Hutchcraft is going from the UK's lowest to highest points
An adventurer from Cambridgeshire's getting set to take on 16 back-to-back marathons in his next mammoth test.
Mitch Hutchcraft has already conquered Mount Everest, but from today, he's planning to trek from the UK's lowest point at Holme Fen to the highest at Ben Nevis.
It is in aid of animal welfare, and he aims to be joined by his two dogs Teddy and Buddy.
"It's 2.7 metres below sea level, so I thought let's make a Forrest Gump of dog walks, partnering with as many rescue centres along the way, having as many rescue dogs with us so the main purpose is to get as many dogs rescued in the build-up to Christmas," Mitch said.
"So many dogs need rehoming and hopefully along the way, we can work with MPs to make a lasting change to legislation to make things permanently better (for dogs)."
Mitch - who wants people to 'adopt not shop' - is planning to cover 700km in the hope of finishing before Christmas Day. Along the way, he hopes to share the stories of different rescue dogs and so far, Mitch said three dogs have already been rescued through his work.
One of the areas of the law he wants to tighten up on is around illegal dog breeding, with those found in breach facing an unlimited fine and up to six months in prison.
"There's nothing wrong with responsible dog breeding; we're talking about illegal dog breeders who abuse the system to make profit," he added.
"It gives me more drive to make sure everything's in place, but as with any challenge, you've got to be prepared to adapt, but I'm ready."