GIRLS from Year 7 at Hanford School at Child Okeford gave up the last day of half-term to tackle the Clarendon Way Challenge – walking more than 14 miles for charity.

The youngsters, supported by staff, parents, siblings and a few excited family pets, walked from Broughton to Winchester, over 14 miles through the Test Valley, in aid of Naomi House and Jacksplace.

When they arrived at Winchester Cathedral, they were cheered by army cadets and awarded with medals and treated to ice cream for their efforts.

It was not all plain sailing, but the girls said nasty blisters and a sore ankle were tackled with great stoicism and any lagging spirits towards the end of the day were lifted at the sight of their canine companions – Chilli, Alfie and Mungo – bounding through the flower strewn meadows.

Hanford head Rory Johnston, who accompanied the team on the walk, said: “I was very proud of the girls’ achievement.

“This is a long walk and made all the harder because of the heat, but they all rose to the challenge, and I didn’t hear a single moan.”

Naomi House and Jacksplace are hospices which provide support for children and young adults with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions in Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, the Isle of Wight and beyond.