MICHAEL Butterfield had welcome company when he pushed a wheelbarrow the 23 miles from Dawlish to Newton Abbot and back.

At the last minute Maggs Farley decided that as a fitness exercise she would walk along with Michael.

The wheelbarrow push, in aid of funds to put on this year's Dawlish Carnival events, began at the Lawn through to Newton Abbot Market and return – safety vehicles supported by carnival committee members ensured a safe passage along the main roads.

Last year, Michael pushed a wheelbarrow on a return trip from the Lawn to Marsh Barton, Exeter, and raised £1,000.

It is hoped the push on Saturday – it included a bucket collection along the route – will beat that total.

l First published in the Dawlish Gazette on May 9.