A WALKING holiday turned into a real money-spinner for Barbara Roche.

Ms Roche, from Sowerby, near Thirsk, accepted an invite from friends to join them on a 90-mile walk on the North York Moors.

And she turned it into a charity effort when she collected sponsors, and, setting off from Helmsley, completed the Inn Way Walk in six days.

Her footsore efforts raised £1,010 for the Mowbray Suite, at the Friarage Hospital, in Northallerton. The suite looks after cancer patients and patients needing medical treatment.

"I really enjoyed the walk. It was a great challenge and I am happy my sponsorship money is going to help such a good cause," said Ms Roche.

"I wanted to help because a friend was treated in the unit and was very complimentary about the care and support he received."

Sister Susan Whitehead said: "We are very grateful and absolutely delighted Barbara chose us to receive this donation.

"We will be using the money to benefit future patients who visit us and £750 will go towards an infusion pump, which helps in treating cancer patients.

"Another £260 goes to the unit's aromatherapy fund, which provides a soothing and calming service helping patients relax and unwind at what can be a difficult time in their lives."