TWO charity walkers have raised £1,300 by completing a 164-mile stretch of the South West Coast long distance footpath.

Julia Merrifield and Chris Ashford, both members of the science technicians' team at Nelson and Colne College, stepped out along the Padstow to Falmouth section of the path during the hottest two weeks of the year.

They completed the walk in memory of Chris's late father Albert Harris and plan to hand over the cash to cricket star Ian Botham when he walks through Lancashire on his John O'Groats to Land's End walk for the Leukaemia Research Fund later this year.

Julia said: "It was only the thought of Chris's father which kept us going when temperatures hit the high 20s and there was little shade around.

"We walked roughly 12 miles a day which often meant 11-hour days due to the terrain and the 18lb rucksacks we were carrying.

"But the scenery was fantastic and those Cornish delicacies of pasties and clotted cream teas made every step worthwhile."

The pair hope eventually to walk the entire 613 miles miles of the path. Julia walked the first section from Minehead to Padstow last year, raising a substantial sum for sufferers of Alzheimer's Disease and their carers.

Earby-based Chris and Julia from Brierfield hope to add to their sponsorship total with a raffle. Prizes will include a cricket bat signed by Ian Botham and a Manchester United tracksuit top worn by one of the players in the FA Cup final.

Raffle tickets are available at reception at college sites in Nelson and Colne or via Chris or Julie on 01282 440231. The draw will be held on October 15.

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