CHILLING out before they hot-foot it down a 20ft track of red-hot embers, Worcester News journalists Elizabeth Sweetman and Sarah Taylor prepare to walk the walk.

The pair will be among nearly 70 brave souls taking part in a firewalk for charity at the University of Worcester’s Oldbury Road campus tonight. The event will raise money for Worcestershire’s Sight Concern, which provides support, information and services to people affected by sight loss.

“I’ve never done anything like this before,” said Elizabeth. “It seemed like a good idea at the time.”

Sarah has been training at gym classes in Pershore and hitting a punch bag for all she’s worth. “I’d be OK if I was walking on my hands,” she said, “but my feet might be another matter.

“My father’s idea of me doing it in six-inch heels was probably the right one.”

Also among the contenders are property experts Charlotte Fullard, senior surveyor, and Maxine Clarke, assistant property manager, from Halls Commercial in Worcester. This won’t be the first time Charlotte has put herself to the test in aid of charity. Last year, she cycled 400 kilometres across Kenya to raise more than £5,000 for victims of breast, cervical and ovarian cancer. “This is a new challenge,” she said, “but apparently with a few hours coaching I’m told it’ll be like a walk in the park.”

Fiona Blake, fund-raising manager for Sight Concern, said: “Anyone can turn up to watch and we should be on target to raise a substantial amount for the charity.”

The build-up to the firewalk begins at 7pm. Spectator activities start at 8.30pm, when the fire is lit. The first walker goes at 9pm and from 9.30pm onwards there will be a celebration party.