CHIEF instructor of the Sochin Karate Club will be swapping his martial arts equipment for his hiking boots next month when he steps out on a sponsored walk.

James Masterman is walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path to raise funds for the Harriet Davis Trust.

Fifty-eight-year-old James, 3rd Dan KUGB TKGB, is the chief instructor of the club which is based at Tenby Leisure Centre.

The club, affiliated to Traditional Karate Great Britain, consists of two classes, both on a Friday from 4-6 pm.

James will be starting his 186-mile walk at St. Dogmaels on Saturday, May 1.

He will be walking as many miles as he can in a day to raise funds and awareness for the Harriet Davis Trust until he finishes at Amroth.

Said James: "Apart from rest periods and sleep, I will be walking non-stop. And although I'll be taking things fairly easy with a steady pace to start with, as I have weak achilles tendons on both feet, I hope to complete the walk by Friday, May 7. However, that remains to be seen, as I have never done the coast path before, but I'm very optimistic!"

Overnight stops will be in either B&Bs, hostel or inns which have been very kindly donated for free by Avon House in Fishguard, The Old School House in Trefin, Bower Farm in Broad Haven, Richmond House in Dale and The Stackpole Inn, Stackpole.

Continued James: "The Harriet Davis Trust, being based in Tenby, is a very worthwhile cause bringing happiness and fun (and no doubt light relief to tired parents/carers) to disabled, frail children by way of their specialised holiday accommodation. Something which most times is hard to find these days.

"Any help, advice and/or sponsorship will be greatly appreciated."

As mentioned, the club trains every Friday at Tenby Leisure Centre, and anyone wishing to obtain a sponsorship form can go along and pick one up.

Added James: "I have already gained sponsorship from other karate clubs, including two from Newport in Gwent, and if any Pembrokeshire clubs would like to sponsor me, I would love to hear from them.

"I will also be popping in to local businesses, restaurants, shops etc in Tenby to leave them details and sponsorship forms.

"Anyone wishing to join me en route will be very welcome (if they can find me); I'll be glad of the company."

James can be contacted on 07541 348269 or by email [email protected]">[email protected]