A CANCER self help group will raise money for a charity with a sponsored walk on Thorncombe Beacon.

Members of The Living Tree will trek up Thorncombe Beacon to raise money for The Fortuneswell Trust, which funds the cancer ward, chemotherapy unit and outpatients ward at Dorset Council Hospital in Dorchester.

The group will invite supporters, family and friends to join them on the journey on Saturday (16) to Sylvia's bench, placed in memory of a former member.

Jo O'Farell, co-founder of The Living Tree, said: "The Living Tree is organising our third sponsored walk to Sylvia's bench on Thorncombe Beacon to raise money for the Fortuneswell Cancer Trust in memory of Sylvia Watkin, one of our first members.

"Sylvia spent her last days on the Fortuneswell Ward at Dorset County Hospital and her family placed the bench on the east side of the beacon - overlooking West Bay in her memory, in her favourite spot.

"The trust supports the ward and the Fortuneswell outpatients, haematology and chemo unit where many Living Tree members have their treatment and consultations."

Those taking part can walk up Thorncombe Beacon from any direction - either from Bridport, Eype, West Bay or Seatown - with the group hoping to meet at the bench at 3.30pm, followed by tea at Downhouse Farm at around 4pm.

Sponsorship cheques and cash raised can be handed in on the day, at any Living Tree meeting. Cheques should be made payable to The Fortuneswell Trust.

The aim of The Living Tree is to offer friendship, creative activities and holistic therapies and relevant diet and lifestyle information for anyone with any cancer.

Members of The Living Tree group meet every Friday between 2pm and 4.30pm at the Friends Meeting House, South Street, Bridport. For more information on the group and the latest programme, please call Jo O'Farrell on 01308 427851 or visit thelivingtree.org.uk.