A SUPERMARKET worker has been granted an extended career break to take his dog for a walk – more than 8,000 miles around the coastline of mainland Britain.

Scott Andrews, 51, and Sam, a German Shepherd, will take between six and nine months to complete the clockwise trek around the country.

The pair hope to raise at least £200,000 for The Children’s Society and the animal charity Stray Aid.

Mr Andrews, of Ryhope, Sunderland, who works at Asda in Leechmere Road, Grangetown, will visit at least 79 Asda stores during their walk.

The pair are known locally for their long daily treks.

Mr Andrews said: “We will not be racing anywhere. It will be a leisurely walk.

“We usually walk around ten to 15 miles a day anyway and I’ll be seeing places I’ve never seen before. Mr Andrews and Sam will be setting off from Tonia’s Cafe, in Seaham Hall car park, in Seaham, at 10am on Sunday."

The Murton Colliery Band will be there to play him off.

Mr Andrews said the supermarket chain is also contributing to the fund-raising, while he has been offered free accommodation for the duration of his walk.

Anyone who wishes to made a donation can visit www.justgiving/teams/scottandsamgoforawalk or text scas50(space)followed by the amount or sta150(space)followed by the amount and send it to 70070.