TWO women flew back to the UK yesterday, having raised almost £5,000 for charity with a trek along the Great Wall of China.

Sheila Moreels, from Newton Hall, and Lynda Fleming, from Finchale Park, both Durham, spent five days walking along the wall to raise money for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

The pair walked between ten and 15km each day, stopping overnight at lodges along the wall.

Mrs Moreels said: "It was hard work. One day it was 35 degrees, and there's no shelter on the wall.

"I've had friends with breast cancer and lost friends to breast cancer, and I've always wanted to go to China. Lynda said she was interested, so we did it."

They had little time to prepare themselves for the trek, starting walking the day after arriving in China.

"The wall's a fantastic sight. The scenery is breathtaking," Mrs Moreels said.

The women have raised between £4,000 and £5,000 so far, and are keen to receive further sponsorship. Donations should be sent to Breakthrough Breast Cancer, c/o Sheila Moreels, 7 Coventry Road, Newton Hall, Durham City, DH1 5XD.