A WOLVERLEY-born woman will be walking the length of the Severn Way to raise money to build a rescue centre for dogs in Romania.

On Monday, June 22, Ann Pursey, who now lives in Worcestershire, will start the 218 mile walk from the River Severn’s source in North Wales. The walk will take her through Welshpool, Shrewsbury, Bridgnorth, Bewdley, Stourport, Worcester and will end at Severn Beach on Thursday, July 2, a total of 11 days.

The purpose of the walk is to raise money to build a new dog shelter for more than 200 abandoned and mistreated dogs in Transylvania, Romania, and to raise awareness of the plight of stray dogs in the country.

She said: “The situation with stray dogs in Romania is desperate. So many are being killed on the streets and there are no anti-cruelty laws to protect dogs or any animals in Romania, unlike in the UK.

“This is why so many people across Western Europe are working hard to raise awareness of the situation over there and to rescue, protect and re-home as many dogs as possible.

“I was brought up in Bewdley and now live in Kempsey, in Worcester, which is right on the river. I thought I could get to know the river better by walking its full length.

“Our goal is to raise £20,000. It is going to be a huge challenge but for a very worthwhile cause. I hope some people will join me for sections of the walk although I will have my three rescue dogs joining me for company.”

Ann has set up a website to help with fundraising activities www.shelterappeal.org.uk.