MORE than 40 families who took part in a sponsored walk, inspired by three children battling against serious illness, have raised hundreds of pounds for charity.

The aim of the walk, along the beach from Marske to Saltburn, was to raise money for charities relevant to three youngsters from St Bede's RC Primary School, in Marske.

Two of the children, Kate O'Donnell, five, and Corinne Woodcock, eight, from St Bede's RC Primary School at Marske, have suffered from brain tumours and Tom Holt, seven, is undergoing leukaemia treatment.

The money raised will go to the charities that help the families of the three children.

Headteacher Karen Siedle said last Friday's walk, organised by the Friends of St Bede's School, may raise £1,000.

"It was a fantastic family event," she said. "I waited for the families at Saltburn, and it was amazing to see this mass of people coming along the beach through the mist."

Anyone wanting to help the school raise money for the cause is asked to ring (01642) 485217.