Nine-year-old Misha Jensen is preparing to walk 177 miles along Offa’s Dyke to raise money for a donkey-hauled library in Ethiopia.

The libraries take books to children and schools in rural areas of the African country, using a cart carrying a range of books and stools. They also carry food for the donkeys, so they can eat after pulling up in the shade.

Misha, of Middle Rank, Bradford on Avon, will be joined by his mother, Sasha. They aim to walk up to 13 miles a day for three days, having a rest day in between each session.

Misha, who is home schooled, said: “I am really excited about this walk.

“It is going to take three weeks but will be worth it if we can raise the money we need for the school in Ethiopia.”

“I am slightly worried that this might take all of my energy and that I might have to crawl part of the way, but I am sure the ash staff I am making will help a lot.”

Misha has been on many practise walks in Wiltshire and has been involved in woodwork classes to create his staff from an ash tree.

Mrs Jensen, 44, said: “Misha is a joy to walk with, such good company.”

“He is an avid walker and has wanted to do it for two years.

“He is very determined and every morning he is checking the total on his donations page. The whole of this year we have studied the ancient world and, in particular, looking at Roman Britain, so this all ties in.”

The pair aim to raise £2,000 for Link Ethiopia, which supports education in Ethiopia. It will go towards the upkeep of a school and support a donkey library for a year.

Mother and son plan to set off on June 29 and aim to finish on July 20.

People can keep up with their progress and donate to the appeal at Misha’s blog www.offashike.wordpress.com