AN AWARD-WINNING author and illustrator is hoping to help millions of children access education through a walking challenge.

Nick Sharratt is best known for illustrating children’s books, including titles by Dame Jacqueline Wilson.

He turned his hand to navigating tricky terrain, completing a 26-mile walk to raise money for the 260 million children worldwide currently out of school.

Nick walked from Rottingdean to Lancing and back, via his home in Hove, over two days for the charity Theirworld.

He said: “Throughout my career I have seen first-hand the power that education has to transform children’s lives.

The Argus: Nick Sharratt in HoveNick Sharratt in Hove

“That millions of children around the world don’t have the same access to school as we do here in the UK is simply wrong.

“I’m delighted to support Theirworld in their mission to get children back into school, and I hope that other Brighton and Hove residents will join me in taking up this challenge.

"Together we can help ensure that no child goes through life without access to quality education.”

Theirworld has committed itself to reducing the large number of children across the world who cannot access education.

It said that by 2030, half of all young people will lack the basic reading, writing and numeracy skills necessary to find work.

Throughout June, the charity is encouraging the public to take part in the walking challenge to raise funds for “vulnerable and marginalised children all over the world”.

The Argus: Nick is best known for his illustration of children's booksNick is best known for his illustration of children's books

Sarah Brown, chairwoman of Theirworld, said: “Education is the key that unlocks opportunities, not just for children, but for everyone. It drives healthier, greener, fairer, and wealthier societies.

“The fact that millions of children around the world still have no access to school should horrify us all.

“But we have a chance to act now. Join Nick and the Theirworld team in taking up this challenge and taking a stand on behalf of the world’s most vulnerable children.”

Theirworld supports vulnerable and marginalised children all over the world – from Ukrainian refugees to girls in rural Kenya - and celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.