FOUR intrepid children completed a three-hour walk to raise hundreds of pounds for a cancer charity in memory of a family friend.

The children trekked from their school, Our Lady of Lourdes RC Primary in Rudgwick Drive, Bury, to the top of Holcombe Hill and back on Saturday in aid of The Christie hospital.

Lucy Liddle, Alanna Radcliffe, Layla Hunt, all aged eight, and Darcy Tanner, aged nine, came up with the idea for the sponsored walk after a friend of their mums died from cancer.

Joan Bennett, of Holbeach Grove, Brandlesholme, lost her 20-year battle with the illness last year at the age of 62.

She was originally diagnosed with breast cancer but the disease spread throughout her body and took her life in March.

The youngsters wanted to do something for charity and after a discussion in the playground, they decided to tell their mums about their idea for a walk and a cake stall.

It is hoped that they will raise enough money to fund a plaque in memory of Mrs Bennett at The Christie hospital.

Lucy’s mum Emma Liddle, of Purbeck Drive, Bury, said: “I’m really proud of the children, they came up with the idea on their own and it was nice to encourage them. It’s quite a walk for eight-year-olds and I think they did really well.

“The weather was on our side, it was a lovely day. We walked all the way to Holcombe Hill and back again in just under three hours. They enjoyed it so much, they’ve talked about making it an annual event, but we’ll have to see about that.”

Mrs Bennett’s daughter, Chrissy Holland, aged 36, said: “I can’t really put into words how I feel about what they have done, I’m just really touched by it.”

So far, the four girls have raised around £400.

To sponsor their cause: contact Mrs Liddle on 0161 764 0862.