A LAYCOCK couple tackled a gruelling charity walk to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Crete.

Paul and Ann Carter and a group of friends took on the route followed by Allied troops when they evacuated the Greek island.

Together, the trekkers raised more than 8,000 euros, equivalent to over £6,000.

Proceeds are being split between the British Limbless Ex-Service Men’s Association (BLESMA) and a children's cancer charity in Crete.

Mr Carter – a plasterer – and eight others completed the full 100km, in 20 hours, while his wife – a conveyancing executive at law firm Gordons – covered 65km.

The walk began on the south coast of Crete and rose up through the white mountains at the Askifou Plateau, before dropping back down to sea level in the north.

"I struggled with the heat and very sore feet!" said Mrs Carter.

"We were joined at various stages of the walk by others and we all finished at a war memorial where we laid wreaths commemorating the battle's anniversary.

"We supported BLESMA because we wanted to give something back to those who risk their lives for us and are injured in the process.

"To raise the amount we did was extremely pleasing."