Walking the long miles in aid of a good cause

Steve was moved to organise the challenge after a close friend died from cancer at Weston Park Hospital, Sheffield, aged just 53.

"My friend Diane Thorpe was told she had just two to three months to live, but because of the treatment she received at Weston Park, and her determination, she lived for two years," explains Steve.

"I wanted to do something to raise money when she was diagnosed, but it never happened. So when she died I was determined to do something a bit different."

Then when his girlfriend's grandma died of cancer and another friend's mum was diagnosed with the disease he came up with the idea for the walk. "There are eight of us," says the 23-year-old. "We are setting off from Barnsley Town Hall and aim to cover at least 28 miles a day. It will be quite a challenge as the route takes us through some challenging terrain."

The team, which includes Steve's girlfriend as well as other friends and family, are being put up along they way.

They are currently in training for the event which kicks off at 9am on May 21 and are also busy fund-raising for their ambitious target. "We have been helped by Ramada Jarvis and Langcliffe Caravan Park for which we are very grateful."

n Anyone who would like to donate to the charity should log on to www.justgiving. com/100MileLakeDistrict Walk. Steve aims to split any money raised between the two charities.