Johnathan Westacott took on the gruelling West Highland Way.
A nine-year-old boy from North Devon has walked 96 miles to raise over £1,500 for veterinary charity PDSA.
Johnathan Westacott, who loves animals, took on the challenge of walking Scotland's West Highland Way alongside his family and family dogs, Fudge and Coco.
On his JustGiving page, Johnathan explained why he was taking on the gruelling hike: “I love animals and thought this was a great way to raise some money for a fantastic charity helping our pets live happy and health my lives!
“My inspiration to raise money for the PDSA not only come from my love of animals but also came from watching videos of Max, Harry and Paddy @Max Out in the Lake District on Facebook I wanted to join their mission to raise money for the PDSA.”
Walking a total of 310,000 steps and 59 hours over eight days, Johnathan raised vital funds for the charity's work with sick and injured pets, and PDSA shared their support and gratitude to him.
Ruth Lister, from PDSA, commented on Johnathan's achievement: “Johnathan’s challenge is incredibly inspiring and we are very grateful to Johnathan and the whole family for their support.
“The funds raised through their amazing fundraising challenge means that we are able to continue our life-saving work, caring for pets whose owners have nowhere else to turn.”
Jennifer Westacott, Johnathan's mum, said: “We are so proud of Johnathan and his achievement – it’s an incredible distance and seeing him finish the West Highland Way walk in aid of his favourite charity PDSA has made me burst with pride.
“Myself and my husband, Andrew, walked alongside him, together with his nanny and grandad, so we could all support one another to get through the miles. It wasn’t easy but together we made it so we could be there for Jonathan and we all kept each other going despite the very tired legs and blisters!
“Johnathan has always loved animals, especially dogs, and he decided to take on the challenge and to raise funds for vet charity PDSA.
“He was inspired to support PDSA after watching the daily live feeds from Max Out in the Lakes Facebook page who share daily updates during their walks with three Spaniels, Max, Paddy and Harry in the Lake District.
“They have held many fundraising events for PDSA, so Johnathan wanted to follow in their footsteps and do the same!”
Johnathan’s JustGiving page is still open for donations and can be accessed here.
Images (C) PDSA
BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.
