TWO colleagues walked from their place of work to Blackpool Tower in aid of a brain tumour charity.

Cheryl Hunt and Declan Bottomley completed the 36-mile sponsored trek to raise funds for Brain Tumour Research.

The pair, who both work for business brokers Hilton Smythe, set off from their office in Wood Street, Bolton, and arrived at the famous landmark some 13 and-a-half hours later.

Workmates, family and friends were at the seaside resort to greet them with some well deserved fish and chips when they finally completed their epic jaunt.

The charity is particularly close to Ms Ward’s heart, as she grew up watching people around her suffer from different forms of the disease.

She said: “We’ve raised a fantastic amount of money for Brain Tumour Research.

“I decided to support this cause as one of many, it is something that is very close to my heart and cancer, unfortunately, is something I have been surrounded by for a while now.

“I have watched members of my family fight the disease and are still doing so, I’ve watched friends crumble around me due to the loss of their loved ones and I felt like I needed to just get up and do something to help others who are affected by this condition.”

And Ms Hunt, who is a sales manager, added that Mr Bottomley’s support was invaluable on the difficult slog across the north west.

She said: “For the people who know me know that walking is not my chosen option to get from A to B and I will definitely be glad to be back at my desk on Monday to get off my feet!

“I would just like to thank Declan in particular for his constant support I couldn’t have done this without him and everyone else who has supported me it means the world.”

To date the duo have raised more than £800 for their chosen charity through sponsor forms and a ‘text to donate’ service.

Sue Farrington Smith, chief executive of Brain Tumour Research, said: "We are extremely grateful to Cheryl and Declan, and everyone at Hilton Smythe who took part in this great event.

“For too long, brain tumours have been a neglected cancer. It is inconceivable that we should allow this situation to continue unchallenged. We must not abandon the 60,000 people who are living with this disease in the UK. While we applaud the wonderful advances for many other diseases through the fantastic research breakthroughs of recent years, it is now time for brain tumour patients and their families to see results.”

It is still not too late to sponsor Ms Hunt and Mr Bottomley for their walk.

To donate text Brain Tumour Research on 70070 with the message GEOG92 followed by the amount you wish to donate.