A MALVERN woman who has survived breast cancer has just completed a 26-mile walk to raise funds for the fight against the disease.

When Debbie Bird, aged 50 of Leadon Road, was being treated, she made friends with two fellow patients, Charlotte Glasson of Cheltenham and Allyson Craigan of Worcester.

And having come out of the treatment fit and well, the three decided to raise awareness and funds for three good causes: Breast Cancer Now, Worcestershire Royal Hospital Oncology Unit, and Maggie's Centre in Cheltenham, which provides support for people with cancer.

They decided to walk the 26 miles from the hospital in Worcester to the centre in Cheltenham, and on Saturday, accompanied by family members and friends, they set off.

Mrs Bird said: "Our route took us along the A38 and we had a bucket collection for our three nominated charities along the way. We have currently raised in the region of £6,000.

"Sadly, around 1,000 women die from breast cancer every month and we ourselves know of people who have been less fortunate than us with their experience of the disease. Our challenge of walking 26 miles was for them, and because we don’t want this disease to be something that we see our daughters or any of our family or friends go through.

"It’s thanks to the team at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and charities like Breast Cancer Now that we have full and happy lives. A few blisters are well worth it.”

To donate, visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/breastfriendswalk.