BROTHERS Brian and Paul Huxtable have pledged to make the 30th Exmoor Ramble charity walk the biggest yet, after losing their inspirational father who raised over £250,000 by creating and organising the much-loved annual event.

Ivan Huxtable, an 80-year-old agricultural engineer, died of cancer in May this year, cared for in his final months by North Devon Hospice, for which he had become a legendary fund-raiser.

Last year, although seriously ill, he not only organised the event but walked the route over several days and helped to raise over £15,000 for the hospice.

Now, Ivan’s two sons Brian and Paul are asking the local community to sign up and join in this year’s walk on September 26 to honour the man who created it and fulfil a promise to raise more money than ever before.

“We’re doing this for our father because even in his final days all he wanted to talk about was this year’s Exmoor Ramble,” said Brian. “He was making sure that we had everything in hand, knowing that he wouldn’t be around to see it through.

“That is the commitment he had to the cause, and it shows how much he cared. Ivan is a legend to so many on Exmoor because he knew the place like the back of his hand and was very well respected by so many here after a lifetime in the farming community.

“His annual Exmoor Ramble was always a highlight for so many people, and we’re determined to do him justice by making this year’s event the best one yet this year.”

Registration for the Ramble is free. Walkers can choose either a six or 14-mile circular route from Simonsbath, carefully designed by Ivan himself before he died.

Ali Hunt, from North Devon Hospice, said: “I’d known Ivan as long as I’ve been involved with North Devon Hospice, which is more than 20 years. You could not wish to meet a nicer man, who had such a sharp wit and the most generous spirit.

“What he has done for charity over the years, most notably the hospice, is simply incredible. Every person who takes part in this year’s Exmoor Ramble will be helping other local families receive the same care and support as Ivan did in his final months, weeks and days.”

Register free for the Ramble at northdevonhospice.org.uk.