A Bridport youngster is planning to walk from Thorncombe Beacon to West Bay to raise funds for Alopecia UK, after being diagnosed with the condition himself.

Six-year-old Jack, a pupil at Symondsbury Primary School, was diagnosed with alopecia when he was five, after noticing a small patch of hair loss at the base of his neck.

His parents commented: "The diagnosis was a complete shock as no obvious cause can be attributed to the shift in his immune system. Fast forward 12 months and he has lost all of his hair including his eye lashes and eye brows.

"As you can imagine the process and progression of his hair loss has been difficult, especially given his young age and at a time when he was just starting primary school, finding his feet and creating his own social standing.

"However, in true Jack fashion, he fully embraced his new look and has taken each new chapter of his journey very much in his stride."

September is Alopecia Awareness Month and this year's campaign is themed 'Challenge Yourself'. Jack has decided to walk from Thorncombe Beacon to West Bay, starting at Down House Farm, on Saturday, September 23.

His parents added: "A walking challenge seemed perfect for Jack because, if you know Jack, you know that 'walks' really aren't his thing and this will very much be both a physical and mental challenge for him! Plus, living with the South West Coast Path on your doorstep it seemed the obvious choice.

"The work this charity does is truly amazing as no one person with alopecia shares the same journey; they work tirelessly to offer information, support, and advice to help people and their families navigate this complex condition. But also to fund research projects and social events so no one feels alone in their journey.

"So please show your support for Jack and this wonderful charity and donate whatever you can - all funds raised will go direct to the charity. Thank you!"

Jack has already smashed his initial fundraising target of £250 and has so far raised almost £1,000. You can sponsor him online at https://www.justgiving.com/page/jackswalksforalopecia