Fresh from talks with Cherie Blair in Downing Street last Tuesday, Janet Rockliffe, North of England Coordinator for the charity "Speakability", successfully led a team of 10 family and friends on Saturday's historic Keswick to Barrow Walk.

Even for the experienced runners and walkers amongst the team, the 40-mile target was daunting - as was the 5.00 a.m. start.

However, the final descent into Barrow in glorious sunshine and the knowledge of £700 already pledged, not to mention the free beer on arrival, were a triumph.

"Speakability" is the national charity for Aphasia, a condition affecting the speech and communication skills of more than a quarter of a million people in the UK who have suffered stroke, head injury or other neurological condition.

Through her work with self-help groups in the area, Janet met Fred Hammond, an ex Vickers employee, who suffered head injury while cycling on holiday. It was Fred who first got Janet interested in the K2B walk, and cleverly pledged his sponsorship on the final ten miles.

If you would like to add your support for the Speakability team walk or to find out more about Speakability, please contact Janet Rockliffe on 01539 721017.