A COUPLE are planning to turn a passion for the outdoors into their day job - with a little help from our four-legged friends.

Jim and Ann Ferguson, who live in Norton, have set up a dog walking business, Derwent Dog Walkers, after experience taught them that in busy households something has to give.

"It’s not unusual for much-loved pets to sometimes pay the price," Jim said.

"Relying on friends, family and good neighbours to walk the dog or let the dog out, is not always the best solution."

Until August this year, Jim worked at York Hospital where he was a nurse in accident and emergency for 23 years, the last fifteen years as an emergency nurse practitioner.

Jim said it was a job that was never the same from one day to the next and gave him a calm, approachable and resourceful take on life.

“This is a complete change in direction for me and I am excited about doing something different," he said.

"I can combine a love of the outdoors with the caring and practical skills I’ve gained from my years as a nurse in A&E. We have done our research and we think there is a real need in the area for our dog walking services.

“My first dog was Obey, a Labrador mutt who smiled and jumped very high. From then on my mum always owned curly coated retrievers, and still does today. Ann and I have always had a dog ourselves, the latest being Luna the Dalmatian.”

Malton Web Design, a small company also based in Norton, has helped get Jim and Ann’s business up and running by designing and building their website.

For more information, phone Jim Ferguson on 07981 729269 or at info@derwentdogwalkers.co.uk