BIG-HEARTED student Philippa Robson went barefoot at the weekend in her quest to raise enough money to buy 3,000 pairs of shoes for children overseas.

The 19-year-old took a big step towards her target when she was joined by 26 members of her family and friends of raising £1,500 on a sponsored walk from Redcar to Saltburn, east Cleveland.

However, they chose to see for themselves what it would be like to have no shoes by opting to walk the ten miles in their bare feet.

Three hours later, and with blisters and sores on their feet, they felt more compelled than ever to realise Philippa's goal.

The York University student, known as Pip, returned from Ethiopia last month after spending a gap year working with underprivileged children.

She was so affected by her experience teaching youngsters in a 3,000-pupil primary school that she hopes to go back in time for Christmas.

"I worked at a government school in the countryside and the first thing that struck me was that they had nothing.

"They had no exercise books, pens or learning materials, but then I realised they weren't even wearing shoes. Out of 3,000 children at the school, I think I saw four wearing shoes.

"The amount of injuries I saw because they weren't wearing shoes really bothered me. It's not right.

"So, when I came back, I decided to raise £1,500 to buy 3,000 pairs of shoes from a factory in Ethiopia. They are only 50p a pair, but people still cannot afford them. It's terrible."

Pip, of Ruskin Avenue, Saltburn, has a long-term aim of returning to Ethiopia to work when she finishes her psychology and counselling degree.

However, her immediate aim is to try to secure funding or sponsorship so she can return in time for Christmas to buy the shoes. She said: "It would be the best Christmas present for them and for everyone who has taken part today if I can get there in time," she added.

"I can't wait to see their faces light up."

Her parents, Kevin and Karen Robson, said they were extremely proud of their daughter. "She is a star," said Mrs Robson.

"All she has ever wanted to do is help people in her gap year. She hasn't just played at it, it has been the real thing for her, and we are very proud."

Paul "Kipper" King was first to make it back to Saltburn - despite still recovering from a broken leg. He raised £400.

Pip's uncle, Egon Robson, said Mr King was still wearing a brace on his leg, but was determined to take part.

"His leg was getting better, so he decided to do it, however, his leg was so swollen when he finished, that he had to take the calliper off," he said.

"I think, like everyone else, he just wanted to do what he could."