SIX keen walkers joined forces to raise nearly £500 for the Millbrook Suite with an 18-mile trek.

They were inspired by the care their close friend, Cyril Hubble, has received at the unit, where he is being treated for cancer.

The cross-country route stretched from Martley to Bewdley, which forms part of the 31-mile Worcestershire Way.

A total of £475 was raised in sponsorship and donations, which the group were “very pleased” with, said Mary Parmenter.

Mrs Parmenter, an optical advisor from Kidderminster, added: “It was a very good day. The weather was kind to us - we had a bit of rain, some sunshine and wind too and it was very soggy underfoot but we all enjoyed it.”

The group completed the full Worcestershire Way last year in aid of the Multiple Sclerosis Society and hope to continue their fund-raising in future years.

Next year they plan to support Admiral Nurses, who specialise in care for people with dementia.

“We try to do something every year to support a charity and help others,” Mrs Parmenter explained.

The Millbrook Suite was chosen as this year’s beneficiary as a tribute to the staff at the unit, Mrs Parmenter added.

She went on: “We wanted to show our appreciation for the treatment, care and dedication given to Cyril.

“I’ve been reading The Shuttle and seeing all the good fund-raising work people have been doing. This is our local hospital and the Millbrook Suite is very important to us all.”