A man whose daughter underwent heart surgery when she was just a year old will walk from Leeds to Skipton to raise money for the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

Evie Bancroft, now three, was diagnosed with a hole in the heart at 13 months. An ultrasound scan showed she also had a double-chambered right ventricle that would need immediate surgery.

Her dad Keith, of Royds Avenue, Birkenshaw, took part in the Hearts First Leeds to Skipton Canal Walk two days before Evie’s surgery. This time he hopes to raise £500 to support the foundation.

Mr Bancroft, 39, said: “Evie is now as good as new. She had a check-up a few months ago and doctors said the surgery went as well as they had hoped.

“She shouldn’t have any more problems in the future.

“Without research funded by organisations like the British Heart Foundation, Evie’s condition may not have been spotted and treated so quickly.

“The Leeds to Skipton Canal Walk is a great event. By taking part I feel I’m playing my part in helping other families affected by heart disease. This sort of thing reminds us of the wonderful work the staff at the hospital do and the fantastic efforts of the BHF.”

To register for the event on Sunday, September 7, or for more information, call 0800 9176976, e-mail neast events@bhf.org.uk or visit bhf.org.uk/ canal. To sponsor Keith, visit justgiving.com /keithbancroft.