With a good luck message from Scottish music duo The Proclaimers still ringing in her ears, fundraiser Louisa Dye finally completed her 500-mile walk challenge.

Louisa, from Sprowston, battled shin splints, blisters and every imaginable weather conditions to raise more than £7,600 for the N&N Hospitals Charity, to support the oncology department at the N&N.

The challenge throughout March was in memory of her parents – Stuart Clarke, who died from pancreatic cancer in 2006 and mother, Christine, who died after being diagnosed with breast cancer and its secondaries in 2021.

Louisa was joined on her daily walks by Cockapoo, Stanley, and dozens of friends and family, as well as pupils from Langley Prep School at Taverham Hall.

Louisa said: “In 2020, I started including walking into my fitness routine, anything from 5 miles to 24 miles.

“Since losing my mum, walking has kept me occupied and filled a gap in my life that mum filled. On one of my many walks on route to Whitlingham in November 2022, I came up with an idea to use walking as an advantage, to raise money for the oncology fund.

“This supports patients at the Weybourne Day Unit where patients receive chemotherapy and Mulbarton ward – the focus is on the treatment and care of those suffering from and living with cancer, both close to my heart as both my mum and dad used these facilities.”

Lynn Crombie, from the N&N Hospitals Charity, said: “No-one ever doubted that Louisa was going to smash this challenge, but to raise such an incredible amount is extra special – what an inspiration to us all!

“This will make such a difference to our oncology team and will benefit so many patients and staff here at the N&N.”

You can still make a donation here: louisa Dye is fundraising for Norfolk and Norwich Hospitals Charity (justgiving.com)

For more information about the charity and how you can support us, go to nnhospitalscharity.org.uk/