A HALSTEAD woman is set to take on a walking challenge in memory of her late friend. 

Linda Szpurko, 62, will take on the 50km Thames Path Challenge to raise money for Cancer Research UK after her close friend Richard Whyte passed away in June.

She will walk from Putney Bridge to Runnymede and it is likely to take between nine and 14 hours.

Linda said: "I chose Cancer Research UK in memory of my friend.

"I saw first hand some of the work they do and it is a fantastic cause.

"I have been training quite a bit, I did a 20 mile walk in five and a half hours so hopefully I should be on track to finish in about nine hours.

"I have already done the moonwalk twice, which is 26 miles, and I saw the Thames Path Challenge and thought while I still can, I will give it a go.

"I am actually quite looking forward to it, I got to about 18 miles on my last walk and thought, hang on, is this actually a good idea.

"But then when I finished I did think I have a little left in me, I am sure I will be fine on the day.

"My husband thinks I am crazy but it is a great way to raise money.

"Cancer has touched so many people, most of us know somebody in some way who has suffered from it in some way, and Cancer Research are marvellous."

As things stand Linda has raised just under £500 and is hoping that figure will push above £600 before the event. 

Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Linda-Szpurko to show your support.