WALKERS of all ages put their best foot forward for a hike designed to raise awareness of meningitis.

More than 50 people, from children to grandparents, took part in Meningitis UK’s Big Stroll North East in Osmotherley near Northallerton on Sunday, May 12.

The group was led by Meningitis UK founder Steve Dayman and Terry and Sue Laing, from Stockton, who lost their 24-year-old daughter, Helen, to the disease in 2001.

They faced strong winds and downpours during their 5.5 mile walk. Mr Laing said: “The weather was definitely the worst we’ve ever had for the walk, but there was a sea of smiles despite the rain and wind.

“Everyone’s spirit was fantastic and remained throughout.

“We were all determined to finish, didn’t care about getting wet because it was all about fundraising for, and raising awareness of, a noble cause.”

Mr Laing’s daughter had wanted to be a nursery nurse from the age of 14 and qualified in January 2001.

But four months later she contracted meningococcal septicaemia. She was rushed to hospital, but after five days on a life support machine, she died.

Every year since then her parents have staged a walk, called Helen’s Walk, which after ten years and raising £90,000 for Meningitis UK, they handed the annual event over to the charity.

It started in Osmotherley and took in parts of the North York Moors, including Cod Beck and Oakdale reservoirs.