by Sarah Mawhinney

A TOWN mum, who took part in a special marathon for charity, has thanked the Advertiser/Messenger for putting her in touch with fellow walkers.

Pip Everard, of Greyfriars Drive, took part in the Playtex Moonwalk in London covering more than 26 miles to raise cash for breast cancer research.

The 39-year-old, who is chairman of Bromsgrove Ladies Circle, wanted to hear from other women who were taking part in the event so they could all offer each other support and train together.

The father of Sally Tucker, from Moorgate Road, Woodgate, spotted the story and Sally got in touch.

The women went out several times in the weeks running up to Moonwalk, which was held on May 20, and one day covered 21 miles in five and a quarter hours.

Although they were in different starting groups on the night, the women met up in Playtex City beforehand for a meal and to soak up the atmosphere.

Pip said: "This was fantastic, 14,000 ladies and 1,000 men all together for the same purpose.

"The week before we were really concerned that the weather would be against us, but we were blessed with 12 hours of perfect power walking conditions. Nothing could stop the wonderful energy and enthusiasm of the walkers and volunteers alike."

Although it was not a race, the fastest walker came in at five hours 18 minutes, and the town women made a respectable six hours 54 minutes and seven and a half hours.

Pip added: "The main aim is to raise money for this superb cause and I am happy to say between us we have raised in excess of £4,500 for Breakthrough Breastcancer.

"Many thanks for featuring me in the Advertiser as from this whole experience I have gained five new friends and donated generously through my friends and supporters to a superb cause."