JOHN White and his two dogs battled through rain and wind when they took to the hills in aid of the Somerset County Gazette's 'Stop It Before It Starts' drug education campaign.

John, who holds the title of Lord of the Manor of Taunton, tackled the 20-mile walk on the Quantocks to raise funds for the appeal and Taunton Women's Refuge.

He and his pet dogs, Connie and Iris, embarked on the challenge to celebrate the granting of Taunton's town charter, which will be celebrated in May with the County Gazette-backed Taunton 1100 Festival.

John, who lives in Broomfield, said: ""I'm on course to raise £4,000."

For the full story, see this week's (April 16) Somerset County Gazette.