A FATHER has pledged to walk 500 miles to raise money and awareness after his daughter was diagnosed with a disease affecting the immune system.

Frank Broughton, 62, hopes to complete the challenge in 50 days, setting out from Flamborough Head on Saturday, April 26, and walking parts of the Cleveland Way, the Ebor Way, the Dales Way, and the Pennine Way.

Mr Broughton, who lives at Brompton-on-Swale, hopes to run the last 23 miles of his journey - known as the the Swaledale Ooutdoor Club Marathon.

His daughter Susie, 27, was diagnosed with lupus five years ago. An incurable disease of the immune system, it affects 50,000 people in the UK.

Susie's condition is now controlled with drugs and chemotherapy, although her daily life is still restricted. She is sensitive to light and infection, and cannot stay outdoors for long periods.

"It can get pretty frustrating," she said. "I have to wear factor 50 sunblock if I want to go out for a walk, and I can't go to the gym because the lighting there always triggers a flare-up. I keep fit mainly by going swimming, which I love.

"I'm so proud of my dad and what he's doing - he is a lot fitter than most people I know, so I'm sure he'll make it."

A keen walker, and former manager for Natural England in Northallerton, Mr Broughton will take regular breaks during the trip to help his wife, Carol, care for her disabled mother.

"I wanted to raise awareness because lupus is not well known and struggles to attract funding," he said.

"It took two years before Susie was diagnosed. Nobody should have to go through that.

"Hopefully, through this challenge, I can both raise money for research and raise awareness of what is a terrible disease.

"Susie is the one to be proud of - she's gone through so much and faced it all with incredible character. This is the least I can do."

To sponsor Mr Broughton, call 01748-811507, email frankswale@hotmail.com or write to 5 Grange Rd, Brompton-on-Swale, DL107HJ. Cheques should be made to Yorkshire Lupus Group.

For more details about lupus, visit www.yorkshirelupus.org.uk.