Human rights fundraisers are going the distance to boost the fight against modern-day slavery with a walk from Sidmouth tomorrow (Saturday).

The ramblers will be joining a 22-mile trek from Seaton to Exmouth for Hope for Justice, which regularly rescues people – old and young – from captivity.

The charity recently worked with police to free 17 people from their confines in Leeds – and walk organiser Lydia Solman said other victims will be closer to home.

“We want to raise money that will have a direct impact with more rescues,” she said.

“It is a privilege to use our freedom to do something so small and simple that helps those in such need.

“It is safe to say human trafficking occurs in Devon as it does all over the UK, it is found in any trade that can deal with cash – car washing, food packaging, agriculture, sex industry, cannabis farms and many more trades.”

The group meets monthly to help raise awareness, and every six months the members deliver essentials to a safe house in the South West.

Lydia, who put the walk together with husband Lee, said she was ‘astounded’ by donors’ recent generosity, and the 19 care packages made a world of difference.

“There was enough to not only bless those spending Christmas in the safe house but also those spending their first Christmas independently and free from slavery,” added the Ottery resident.

The walk follows the coast path, and participants can start in either Seaton or Sidmouth, where it will start by the lifeboat station at 11.30am. It is expected to finish in Exmouth at around 6pm.

To take part, email lydiasolman@hotmail.co.uk.