A GROUP of six friends will be rising to the challenge of a 24-hour walk around the Isle of Wight next week ­— raising money for Macmillan.

Sam and Shona Parnell, Spike Pearce, Jim and Bill Scott and Tom Bur-Hersey will all be walking the coast of the Island on Friday, September 24.

The friends will be providing updates of their progress on the day, once their 70-mile route has been confirmed.

They aim to raise around £5,000 for the charity walking anti-clockwise from Ryde, and have already hit the £1,000 mark.

"This will push us mentally and physically, but we will do all it takes to complete it," said Sam.

"Our main aim is to raise as much money as possible for Macmillan, before, during and after the challenge, so any donations big or small are welcome."

The group are also looking to acquire matching kit and equipment, so any businesses willing to sponsor them should get in touch.

To make a donation and support the intrepid sextet visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/iow24hourwalk