A GROUP of friends have raised thousands of pounds for a west Dorset charity in memory of Ruthie David.

The group have raised more than £7,500 for the Joseph Weld Hospice in Dorchester, where Ms David spent her final days, before sadly losing her battle with cancer - and Penny Brohn Cancer Care.

The friends walked almost nine miles along the coast road in memory of their friend.

Ms David, who was born in Stoke Abbott and lived in Dorset all her life, tragically passed away in September 2013 following a battle with cancer at the age of 54.

Melanie King, who knew Ms David for years, said: "We had a magical day walking from West Bay To Abbotsbury in memory of our wonderful friend

"This was her favourite road with what she called the best view in world. Thanks to all the lovely trekkers and their brilliant sponsors for raising this fantastic amount of money again.

"We are so grateful to all that helped, especially Cyndy Mudford at the Harbour Cafe in West Bay for putting up with us again this year, and to the Bull pub at Swyre and the Swan at Abbotsbury for letting us use their facilities."

The money raised will be split between the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust and Penny Brohn Cancer Care in Bristol.

Last year's walk from Crewkerne to West Bay raised £8712.30.

In 2013 friends of Ruth also sold her favourite flowers – sunflowers – and raised more than £1,500.

“It was incredibly sad to lose Ruth," added Ms King. "I’ve been friends with her for a long time.

"She worked at Girling and Bowditch veterinary practice for 35 years.

“Ruth was my best and closest friend and when she died I had a great hole in my life so focused on doing something in her memory.”

To donate to the challenge, please visit justgiving.com/Melanie-King4