A GROUP of walkers are set to put their best feet forward for a worthy cause -- and they are calling on other volunteers to join them.

The 22-mile sponsored walk, from Southport back to the Anfield Arms pub in Cooper Street, St Helens, has been organised by Rita and Kevin Naylor, of Morello Close, to raise money for the Marie Curie Cancer Hospice in Liverpool.

Rita told the Star: "Kevin's father, Bill sadly died of cancer a few years ago but before his death staff at the hospice in Woolton were marvellous to him and gave him so much care and attention. We did a sponsored walk at the time and managed to raise just short of £2,000, now we are hoping to do even better this time around."

Walkers will meet at the Anfield Arms at 10am on August 12 and will then be transported to Southport to begin the walk, which will end up back at the pub where a hot-pot supper will be provided. The decision to stage a second walk was prompted by events earlier this year when Kevin was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Said Rita: "Kevin had to go into hospital to have the tumour removed and obviously all the worry brought back the memories flooding back."

Fortunately, Kevin is now out of hospital and his recovery is going so well that both he and the couple's 15-year-old daughter will be among the walkers on the day.

Rita added: "I would like to thank the Balti Spice Indian restaurant in Duke Street who have agreed to donate 25 per cent of the cost of any meal purchased by a walker, for a week after the walk, to the hospice."

Anyone wanting to take part can contact Rita on 01254 389912 (work) or 615131 (home); or sponsorship forms can be picked up from the Anfield Arms.