A DOUSLAND couple are taking a well earned rest after completing the walking challenge of a lifetime.

Kay and Ralph Millard completed the trek from Land?s End to John o? Groats ? a distance of 1,020 miles, in 70 days.

They averaged around 15 miles a day during the trek, and believe they may have raised well in excess of £3,000 for Derriford Hospital?s teenage unit on Wildgoose Ward.

Kay, 61, said: ?We didn?t have any days off, we walked every single day ? it was really interesting walking right through such different areas of the country and we were exceptionally lucky with the weather, we seemed to dodge any bad spells.

?We have always been keen walkers and it?s been my husband?s dream to do this.

?We?re both in our sixties now and we thought if we don?t do it now, we never will!?

Kay, who works one night a week on Wildgoose Ward, said her colleagues encouraged her to raise money for the teenage unit, which treats youngsters with a wide range of illnesses, including cancer.

She said reaching John o? Groats after ten weeks of walking was a memorable moment.

?We were really pleased ? and quite emotional, the pair of us. Now we?re back home, it?s all gradually sinking in that we really did it!?

Apart from a few initial blisters and a broken finger after a fall, Kay and Ralph, who is 68, are in fine shape after their walking adventure ? but need to buy new boots.

?We?ve worn ours out!? said Kay.

Anyone who wishes to contribute to Kay and Ralph?s donation to Wildgoose Ward can contact them on 01822 852645.