A WEST Dorset company is painting the countryside pink in an unusual challenge to raise cash for charity.

Pink bales of haylage are starting to appear on farmland all over the county thanks to Hogleaze Haylage based at Compton Valence near Dorchester.

The unusual project has been designed to raise awareness, show support and raise funds for breast cancer research as part of a nationwide initiative.

Mr Roberts said: "Everywhere we go we do a certain amount of pink bales, and we have also put the breast cancer logos on our vehicles and machines for when they are running around."

The pink wrap was manufactured by Swedish company Volac, and was distributed to only a small number of UK companies to cover a certain area.

To purchase it, Hogleaze Haylage owner Chris Roberts donated extra funds to Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Breast Cancer Campaign.

Mr Roberts added the company's involvement in the campaign has even gained the attention of people outside of Dorset, thanks to social media.

Within days a video showing Hogleaze wrapping hay bales in pink plastic went viral, gaining more than 60,000 likes.

He said: "It's absolutely incredible what's gone on, there has been a lot of interest, including in the equestrian world as we sell a lot of hay to horse owners.

As well as raising awareness, staff also hope their efforts will also help to raise much-needed cash for the cause too.

The pink hay bales will be sold to horse yards, stables, farmers, events organisers and others.

Anyone buying the bales will be encouraged to make a contribution to Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Breast Cancer Campaign.

Scott Critchell, head tractor driver and foreman at Hogleaze Haylage, said: “It’s great to see agriculture supporting this worthy cause and we are only too happy to be part of it.

"The bales are generating interest on Facebook and we have received a lot of support.

"Please keep your eyes open for them, upload your pictures online and keep donating.”

To donate, visit justgiving.com/Hogleaze-Haylage or text HOGL55 with the amount you’d like to donate to 70070.