A BRADFORD man is preparing to walk the entire length of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to help youth homelessness in the city.

Sam Lawrence, who works at Bradford College, intends to make the 127.5-mile trek over five days.

He has decided to take part in the challenge to raise money for the charity Bradford Nightstop, which gives homeless young people emergency accommodation and support.

“Since moving to Bradford a year ago, I've been shocked by the very visible amount of homelessness in the city,” said Sam, who works as a student engagement and outreach officer at Bradford College.

“That's why I'm determined to raise awareness and as much money as I can to help Bradford Nightstop in their mission to keep vulnerable young people off the streets."

He described the work of charities like Bradford Nightstop as a "vital lifeline" for people on the streets.

“Nightstop helps find safe accommodation, meals and essential supplies for homeless young people and support them in their next steps," he said.

"They also help young people in learning skills for independence which can equip them to make their own way in the world.

“Every penny I can raise will make a huge difference to the life of a young person in need of a helping hand.”

Sam, who lives in the city centre, plans to start in Leeds tomorrow and hopes to reach the finish line in Liverpool on Thursday.

He added: “I'll be walking roughly a marathon distance a day, stopping off in Skipton, Burnley, Chorley and Southport before arriving in Liverpool on the 31st of May.

“I have asked friends if they can donate 10p per mile, which would mean a £12.75 donation to Bradford Nightstop. That's just the price of a round of drinks, but an amount which can make a huge difference to their work keeping young people safe and giving them a chance of a fresh start.”

It is the first time Sam will have attempted such an endurance walk.

“I have never done anything like this before,” he said.

“I am not a keen walker or hiker by any stretch of the imagination. I go for what I call a ‘Sunday wander’ if it is nice day but that would usually be just a few miles.

"The furthest I have walked since training for the challenge is 19 miles so I know it is going to be tough. Here's hoping the rain and blisters stay at bay."

Anyone willing to make a donation can do so by visiting mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/samgoeswest

And to follow his progress, search @SamGoesWest on Twitter.