A CAR accident which has left a Drybrook teen in a coma has sparked a pensioner to walk almost 40 miles.

Newly-trained Walking for Health leader, Pam Burris, of Longhope, recently launched the Huntley health walk with Sandra Christie.

The 71-year-old is part of the group, which holds 16 free walks across the Forest, and set herself the challenge to walk all of them to raise awareness and almost £300 for the family of Alex Telling-Evans, who has been in a coma for 15 months.

She said: “My cousin is Alex’s nan, Judy, and when I heard the sad news about his accident I thought: what could I do to help? I know I am good at walking and thought what better way to raise money while promoting the group. I contacted all 16 Walking for Health leaders and gave them the option to ask their walkers to donate to my cause.

“Some people have given 50 pence while others have given cheques for £20. Everybody has been so supportive and the group has seen more people walk in the weekly groups.

“In just over a month I walked knocking on towards 40 miles; I have three walks left. Most of the walks vary in distance and difficulty with some starting at a mile to two and a half or more.

“I can’t thank everybody enough for their support and I look forward to presenting the money to his mum.”