WALKERS are being asked to brush off their boots, get on their comfiest clothes and prepare for a walk through some of West Devon’s most beautiful countryside in aid of the annual Leafy Lanes charity walk.

Organiser David Hocking is appealing to people of all ages to join the walk on Sunday, May 14 in aid of people visiting Derriford Hospital’s oncology unit.

Last year’s event saw hundreds of walkers turn out to raise more than £3,000 for the Pals of Plymouth Oncology, Outpatients and Chemotherapy (POOCH). The charity was founded by David and cancer sufferer Laura Washer, who set up the organisation after chatting at the 2011 Leafy Lanes walk.

David said: ‘This will be the ninth one and it is so great to see hundreds of walks each year to support the oncology unit. Last year’s event was on a beautiful day and we decided to follow the same route as last year, to see all the beautiful hedges and bluebells. People can turn up on the day or contact me for sponsorship forms.’

The walk is one part of a wider fundraising effort for the organisation. David recently presented £12,000 for Derriford’s radiotherapy unit, chemotherapy unit, triangle centre and clinical trials team.

Another fundraiser taking place is Leawoodstock, a one night music event at Leawood Estate, Bridestowe on July 29. The event is raising money for POOCH and Exeter-based charity Force.

There are two routes to choose from — a three or six mile circular walk, starting and ending in the gardens of the Bearslake Inn at Sourton — and start at 11am. The walks are family friendly, walked around quiet roads, lanes and moorlands. Dogs are welcome if kept under control.

Registration costs £4 per adult, £2 for under 16s and £1 per dog.

For further details call David on 07899 916959 or email [email protected]