FUNDRAISER Sylvia Stoneham got in training for a gruelling trek by heading off to her local supermarket.

Mrs Stoneham, who works for The Butterwick Hospice, in Bishop Auckland, spent most of Thursday on a treadmill in Asda in Bishop Auckland.

She completed 17 kilometres in four hours and raised money for the hospice. Mrs Stoneham is using the experience to get fit for a 100km hike in Iceland, next month.

She will trek across a black ash desert and icecaps in aid of the hospice. She said: "I have been asking people to take on the challenge to raise money for us, so I thought I might as well give it a go myself.

"I felt fantastic after being on the treadmill. I am so unfit, but at least I have proved I can do it."

Anyone who would like to sponsor Mrs Stoneham can telephone her on (01388) 603003.