A man who suffers from a rare condition is walking the length of Hadrian’s Wall with his dog today (Saturday).

Daniel Pearce, of Clay End in Walkern, has sarcoidosis – an inflamatory disease affecting one in every 10,000 people in the UK that causes swelling, joint pain and headaches.

The 29-year-old, who started showing symptons of the condition in his late teens, now plans to walk the 85-mile trek from Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria to Wallsend on Tyneside over seven days.

Mr Pearce, who will be accompanied by his pet dog Leo who has had specially made walking boots fitted, is raising money for sarcoidosis charity SILA.

He originally aimed to raise £500 but has already more than doubled that having so far collected more than £1,100.

Speaking about the support, he said: “It’s amazing. I’m really grateful to everyone that has supported me – it’s a really great cause.

“My symptoms have mostly subsided since Christmas but they could always come back. I wanted to use this time, while I was feeling healthy, to give something back. Leo has been a great companion throughout my illness and has kept me smiling. I can’t wait to take on this massive challenge.”

Mr Pearce has received steroid treatment to help improve his condition but this has left him with weak bones – something known as osteopenia.

“Luckily the symptoms aren’t too bad but it just means I’m at greater risk of breaking something because they are quite weak,” he added.

“Hopefully this walk will also help raise awareness because a lot of people aren’t even aware this illness exists and it seriously affects so many people’s lives.”

To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/Daniel-Pearce6 or search ‘Coast to Coast for Sarcoidosis’ on Facebook for more information.