TWO Keighley grandmothers who trekked across the Sahara in blistering heat to raise money for Manorlands coined-in over £6,400.

Glenys Plunkett and Lorraine Inman faced a series of challenges, from snakes to sandstorms, during their gruelling 100km expedition.

Now the plucky pair have handed over a £6,408 cheque to the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

"It was a tough challenge but a fantastic experience overall," said Lorraine.

"We know people who have benefited from the care Manorlands provides and how important it is locally.

"The hospice is such a lovely, peaceful place and we wanted to show our support."

They jetted out to Marrakesh, where they stayed overnight before beginning a mammoth road trip just to reach the start of the trek.

The women then spent six days walking across the desert, sleeping overnight in tents.

"It was a real challenge but we're all delighted to have completed it and we got a huge amount from the experience," said Glenys.

"We had a couple of sandstorms to contend with, not to mention a sidewinder snake, but we got through it!

"We were running on adrenaline.

"Camels were carrying our supplies but we had to carry our own day packs, which were heavy.

"It was hot during the day and then quite cold at night.

"We're really pleased with the amount raised and would like to thank everyone for their support."

Money has continued to come in following the trek, held in October.

Hayley Ibbotson, a senior fundraiser at Manorlands, said: "Glenys and Lorraine have done a superb job raising funds over the past few months, culminating in this fantastic total being donated to the hospice.

"Although the trek was demanding, I hope they both have a great sense of achievement and pride knowing the funds they raised will be used to provide much-needed hospice care and support in the local community."

The duo was part of a group of nine taking part in the trek, raising money for various causes.

Among the fellow trekkers were Lorraine's daughter Donna Cox – who was supporting Make-A-Wish – and Haworth mum Christina Wilson backing PANDAS, which supports women suffering pre and postnatal illnesses.

Manorlands is staging two treks later this year – the first to Iceland in August and the second to Bhutan in October.

For more details visit sueryder.org/events, e-mail Manorlands.fundraising@sueryder.org or call 01535 640430.