'Emmerdale' star Chris Chittell embarks on charity expedition

Emmerdale star Chris Chittell is taking part in a 200-mile wilderness expedition for charity.

The actor, who plays Eric Pollard in the ITV1 soap, will travel from Scotland's Fort William to Cape Wrath in aid of Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research. He starts the trek today and hopes to complete the task in seven days.

Joining him on the challenge are his friends Peter and special forces John and Dave. The group has spent 12 months training, taking part in several marathons, running the Yorkshire three peaks and practising in the Dales with full 60lb kit.

Speaking of the challenge, Chittell said: "My pals are mad enough to accompany me on a tremendous journey testing us at every level. There will be bogs, rivers, trails, no trails - clean sweet air and silence!

"We'll be responsible for carrying our own kit, rations and survival gear, and will camp in bothies [small stone open fronted shelters] or under the stars."

A spokesperson for the special forces men added: "It's a tough personal challenge for them all and it will be a huge boost if they can, with the community's support, raise some vital funds for Leukaemia and Lymphoma research."

To sponsor Chris and the team visit: www.justgiving.com/chrischittellemmerdale

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