SCOUTS from South Zeal are undertaking a 24-hour sponsored hike over a 50-mile route this weekend, following the tragic death of one of their friends.

The recent death of thirteen-year-old schoolgirl and scout Megan Pillar of South Zeal brought the horrific realisation to her family and friends that cancer can strike anyone, at any time, at any age.

This tragedy prompted Megan's friends in the 1st South Zeal Scout Group to raise money for the Cancer and Leukaemia In Childhood charity (CLIC) by undertaking a gruelling, continuous, 24-hour sponsored hike around Dartmoor.

All members of the group, from six-year-old beavers to senior explorers, will be playing their part during stages of the walk, which starts at the Scout Hut, South Tawton on Saturday , October 18.

The 50-mile route around the moor takes in Chagford, Postbridge, Two Bridges and Peter Tavy to finish back at the Scout HQ on Sunday, October 19. The walk is split into four parts in relay style.

The beavers start at 9am, leaving the Scout hut and walking to Gidleigh — approximately six miles. At noon they hand over to the cubs who must reach Postbridge by 5pm — a distance of ten miles.

A group of scouts will then walk to Peter Tavy, to arrive by midnight — covering 14 miles.

Explorers, as senior members, face the toughest challenge, completing the remaining 20 miles through the night, arriving at the recreation ground in South Zeal by 8.30 on Sunday morning.

All other walkers, having enjoyed a well-earned good night's sleep, will then join the explorers at the recreation ground to complete the final leg, back to the scout HQ for a cooked breakfast.

The hikers are likely to face some inclement October weather at some stage during the 24 hours but this will not stop proceedings — they will 'be prepared', they say.

Anyone who wants to sponsor the youngsters should contact Michael and Caroline Boother on 01837 840039.