A CROWD of more than 200 people gathered in Dorchester last night to watch charity fundraisers walk over 20 feet of burning hot coals.

A total of 47 people were cheered on their way as they completed the challenge for CancerCare Dorset, raising more than £4,500 in sponsorship.

The group underwent coaching before the walk with Cliff Mann, of Nottingham company Blaze.

Mr Mann, a martial arts expert, has been running firewalks for 15 years and said: "We used to do this as a test of courage at black belt level. We found they were doing it in the United States as motivational coaching."

Speaking after the firewalk, Stuart Wilson, 31, of Dorchester, said: "It was very strange. I expected to feel it but I didn't feel anything. I'd do it again because it's for a good cause."

Tony Keegan, 36, of Dorchester, said: "It was brilliant. It was a little bit warm at the end but there was no way I wasn't going to do it."

CancerCare Dorset fundraiser and event organiser Julia Ridyard, who was the first to walk, said: "Having done the firewalk, I can honestly say I feel empowered."

She thanked local businesses, West Dorset District Council and Dorchester Town Council for their support.