A DORCHESTER pair are going the extra mile to fight cancer as they undertake a 106-mile trek to raise money for charity.

As well as participating in the Macmillan Dusk to Dawn Challenge to climb Ben Nevis at night and reach the summit for sunrise, 22-year-old mechanic Robert Williams and his partner Stephanie Turner will be walking 95 miles along the entire West Highland Way before the mountain climb.

They are planning to complete the challenge in just over six days, and are hoping to average 16-18 miles walking each day.

Stephanie, 21, explained how important raising money for the charity is to her and Robert.

She said: “My great uncle recently died of lung cancer, but in his last few months the Macmillan nurses were invaluable, physically and emotionally.

“They were still helping the family even after he had passed away, with support groups and emotional help.”

Speaking about her great uncle Ron Coat, Stephanie said: “It was an incredibly difficult time as he had a wonderful character and such a kind nature. He was loved by many and a keen golfer right until the end.”

She added her partner Robert’s aunt Emily-Jane Wells also had cancer, and that support provided by Macmillan nurses is vital when cancer returns.

“My partner’s auntie was also diagnosed with cancer a few years ago and received a hysterectomy to help sort out the problem. But some time ago she was re-diagnosed with cancer and it didn’t look promising. Thankfully, with cutting-edge treatment, she has bounced back beyond the doctor’s expectations,” she said.

Stephanie added that the family are still hoping Robert’s aunt makes a full recovery so she can continue ‘to live her life with her daughter’.

The couple have set themselves a fundraising target of £800, and are encouraging people to show their support for Macmillian’s nurses by donating however much they can.

For more information and to donate to the cause, visit justgiving.com/Robbie-Stephanie