PHOEBE the labrador may not know it, but she's about to go on the best walkies of her life.

She's about to join pals Deborah Thompson and Ann Kershaw on a fundraising marathon along the Cleveland Way.

Mrs Thompson is a health care assistant and Mrs Kershaw a staff nurse on Ainderby ward at the Friarage Hospital, in Northallerton, and they are going an extra 110 miles to help their patients.

Accompanied by Phoebe, they plan to set off on May 14 and hope to cover the distance in six days, covering up to 18 miles a day.

The trio will be raising money to buy the hospital a new bladder scanner, a piece of high-tech monitoring equipment that costs about £8,500.

Mrs Kershaw, a keen hiker, roped in her friend - who is new to walking - and the two have been having a few practice walks over the moors in preparation, with Phoebe at their side.

"This will be a great challenge for us both, but one we're really looking forward to," said Mrs Thompson."I am sure it will be a great experience and hard work, but we are determined to help such a worthwhile cause."

People can send donations to Ann Kershaw, Ainderby Ward Bladder Scanner Appeal, Friarage Hospital, Northallerton, DL6 1JG or call (01609) 764500 or 764501.