THE West Devon countryside will be filled with walkers next month, raising money for Derriford Hospital's oncology department during this year's Leafy Lanes walk.

Organiser David Hocking is appealing for people of all ages to join one of the walks on May 19 to raise money to help fight cancer and lighten up the hospital with a special painting.

The walks are to raise money for the Pals of Plymouth Oncology, Outpatients and Chemotherapy (POOCH).

The charity was founded by David and cancer sufferer Laura Washer, who was the special guest at the 2011 event.

At the 2011 walk, the pair discussed how there was no charity to support the oncology department in Plymouth, and together they set up POOCH.

Last year, some of the funds raised were used to pay for specially commissioned paintings by Devon artist Laura Wall for the oncology waiting room and for the Woodcock children's ward.

This year, Laura was commissioned to paint a picture in memory of Daniel Bruce, a ten year old from Dousland who died last year having battled leukaemia. The painting is to be presented to Derriford Hospital to hang in the Woodcock ward.

David said: 'It is a wonderful painting, depicting Daniel on a tractor with a trailer of animals. When he grew up he wanted to work on his grandfather's farm so we felt this was a fitting way to remember him.'

There are three routes to choose from — three, six and nine miles —starting at 11am at the Fox and Hounds, Bridestowe. The walks are along quiet roads and moorland in the Lydford and Bridestowe countryside.

Well behaved dogs are welcome, and children and adults alike can enjoy the red tractor spotting games along the way.

People can register on the day or in advance. Registration is £4 for adults, £2 for under 16s and £1 per dog.

For details, entry and sponsorship forms contact David on [email protected]">[email protected] or call 07899 916959.

Donations and cheques made payable to 'Leafy Lanes' can be sent to David Hocking, East Down, Lydford, Okehampton, EX20 4BP.