A group of walkers raised thousands of pounds for Royal Stoke University Hospital and the UHNM charity by walking 50 miles through Leek and a range of other local areas.

A group put together by Leek United Building Society branch manager Dan Nutt took on the challenge to cover 50 miles across four counties in two days on the 17th and 18th July.

The group from the local building society started at Market Drayton and finished at Ashbourne, passing through many local towns on their route including Leek, Biddulph and Congleton.

They've managed to raise an incredible £2,765 so far, and the fundraiser is still open meaning the total could get even higher.

The money will be used to purchase state-of-the-art medical equipment and to enhance patient experience and comfort for people who are cared for at the charity's hospitals.

Discussing the walk, Dan told Nub News: "I'm so proud of what we achieved as a team, especially as it was the hottest weekend of the year. All worthwhile for such a tremendous cause.

"We're all aware of the impact that the unprecedented events of the last 18 months have had on charities and community groups and UHNM are no exception. Every penny raised supports the incredibly worthwhile work that they do to support people in our local communities.

"The real benefit of donations was seen recently through the purchase of iPads which enabled UHNM patients to video call their loved ones whilst receiving treatment during the pandemic.

"We can all see the real positive impact that initiatives like this will have had on patients during what would have been an incredibly difficult and lonely time."

Steve Rushton from University Hospital of North Midlands Charity added: "We're delighted that Leek United Building Society have chosen us. The money raised will make a huge difference to our patients and staff."

The fundraiser is still open for donations, so if you would like to donate then please click here.