A TESTING journey finished on an emotional high when charity walkers arrived back in the region after having set off from Ipswich on Easter Monday.

The group left to walk 333 miles home after Newcastle’s match away to Ipswich – in memory of Lee Hope, a control firefighter from of Newcastle who died of bowel cancer last year aged just 33.

The walk, between Sir Bobby’s statue at Portman Road, home of Ipswich Town, and his statue at St James’ Park, lasted 12 days and pushed walkers to the limit of their endurance.

Of the nine who set out, just two were able to complete the whole challenge with the others reluctantly forced to retire. They were joined most days by supportive friends and family and the final leg – from Durham to Newcastle – saw around 60 extra walkers joining in.

Lee Hope’s brother, Scott, and Chris Wall of Cramlington completed the distance.

Mr Hope said: “When we thought about doing this walk for Lee, it was like we were just coming home from the match. He was a massive Newcastle fan so it just felt right.

“It’s proved to be a lot harder than we thought it would be, physically and emotionally.

“We were on the road for the first anniversary of Lee’s diagnosis with cancer and we were walking the day after Newcastle were promoted, so there have been highs and lows. But everyone’s worked together and it’s been an incredibly positive experience.”

The day before Hike4Hopey, began Newcastle United played Ipswich Town in a crucial Championship fixture. It was also Sir Bobby Robson Day in Ipswich.

The walkers were welcomed home to St James’ Park, escorted along Strawberry Place by two fire engines, with Lady Elsie waiting to meet them next to the statue of her husband.

Lady Elsie said: “This is an absolutely magnificent achievement. I’m very glad everyone’s home safe and sound and I hope they’re all filled with pride.

“The number of people involved on the final day shows how well-regarded Lee must have been.

“We’re very proud of everyone who walked on this challenge. And we’re grateful to all the wonderful people who have helped and supported them.”

Lee’s widow, Amy Richardson, and his two-year-old daughter joined walkers on the Tyne Bridge.

Hike4Hopey has raised over £17,000 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, so far.