A HOLIDAY or a party might be some people’s idea of a 70th birthday celebration.

But former Keighley CID chief Tony Hennigan marked the milestone by walking from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

And his gruelling effort has raised over £16,000 – with gift aid – for Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands, which like other charities has been badly hit by the impact of the pandemic.

It is the third time Tony has completed the length-of-Britain walk – his previous two assaults on the route were for his 50th and 60th birthdays.

As in 2011, he was accompanied on his latest 1,000-mile challenge by his Irish red setter Rua.

He finished the walk in 56 days – four days quicker than in 2001.

Tony covered an average of 18 miles a day in all weather conditions and took in many of the UK’s most famous walking routes, including the West Highland Way.

Throughout the journey he was entirely self-sufficient, carrying all his belongings in a single rucksack.

“It’s been an immensely uplifting and exhilarating experience,” he said.

“There have been many highs and a few lows on this journey but I have been overwhelmed by the support, kindness, goodness and generosity of so many people I’ve met along the way.

“I’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who has kindly contributed to my fundraising total.

“I set off with a fundraising target of £3,000, so the amount raised has exceeded my wildest expectations! I hope it will help the hospice continue to improve the quality of life for people at times of crisis and upset in their lives.”

Tribute is paid by Hayley Ibbotson, senior community fundraiser at Manorlands.

She said: “We’ve been closely following Tony’s progress over the past few months and we’re completely in awe of the commitment and determination he’s shown in completing this incredible challenge.

“The amazing funds that he has raised will make a huge difference in helping us continue to be there when it matters for patients and their families.”

Donations can still be made at justgiving.com/fundraising/anthony-hennigan.

Manorlands supports patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families at the hospice and in the community, across an area covering Craven, Airedale and Wharfedale as well as parts of Bradford.

All services are free to patients and their loved ones, but it costs thousands of pounds a day to keep the hospice doors open. Only a small part of the cost is covered by statutory funding.

For more, visit sueryder.org/how-we-can-help/sue-ryder-manorlands-hospice.