SCORES of walkers trekked their way around a north Hampshire estate to do their bit for charity.

A total of 193 people took part in a five-mile walk at the Lord Portsmouth Estate at Home Farm in Farleigh Wallop.

The event, called Stepping Out, was organised by St Michael's Hospice and was the second of its kind. The hospice now plans to make the walk an annual fundraiser.

Fotoulla Zegos, event co-ordinator for the hospice, said: "It was a bit of a wet, soggy day, but people came back after the walk with smiles on their faces."

Most people took about two hours to complete the trek and were treated to home-made cakes and tea when they finished.

Staff at the hospice are now urging participants to return their sponsorship money as soon as possible and the top three fundraisers who send in their sponsorship money before Friday, May 26, will be rewarded with a prize.

Sponsorship cash can be dropped off at the hospice, in the grounds of Basingstoke hospital, or cheques can be sent to St Michael's Hospice, Basil de Ferranti House, Aldermaston Road, Basingstoke, RG24 9NB.

For further details, call 01256 818000 or e-mail fotoulla.zegos@stmichaelshospice.org.uk

First published: Wednesday, May 3, 2006