A GROUP of friends from South Cerney have raised more than £3,000 after completing a gruelling four-day hike in memory a cancer patient who died earlier this year.

Former waterski instructor Will Gibney, from Somerford Keynes, was diagnosed with cancer of the kidneys just before Christmas in 2011 and lost his battle with the disease six months later, aged 28.

Brothers Peter and Chris Ward and friend David McLean decided to walk 130 miles between two of Will’s favourite places to raise money for a charity set up in their friend’s honour.

The hardy trio set off from WMSki in Cotswold Water Park and walked almost continuously for four days, before arriving at Baggy Point in Croyde.

“It was chucking it down all day long,” said Peter. “We slept in a puddle and I was shivering hard all night. I’ve never been so wet and cold in my life.”

Chris was forced to go to hospital, after suffering severe blisters and damage to the ligaments in his feet during the walk, but still managed to finish the challenge, despite the doctor’s advice.

“He was in agony,” said Peter. “I don’t know how he managed to walk like that for 90 miles. He’s still on crutches now, but the satisfaction of not giving up and completing the walk for Will has been priceless.”

He added: “When we arrived at Baggy Point, it was very emotional. The sun broke out and it was like Will was speaking to us. I’d never been there before, but I can see why he loved it so much.”

Will’s Fund was set up last year to raise £40,000 for screening equipment at Cheltenham Hospital, to help with the early detection of kidney cancer. To make a donation, visit willsfund.org or visit the Facebook group Will’s Walk.