WITH less than two weeks to go before their mammoth hike for Kosovo, a team of walkers from across the South is hard in training.

The 27 walkers, bashed into shape by the Allen family from Totton, will be walking 50 miles through the New Forest over the bank holiday weekend.

Already the fundraising drive has seen scores of local firms and residents dig deep to boost the British Red Cross and Daily Echo Cash for Kosovo appeal to ease the suffering of the war victims.

The appeal aims to raise £250,000 to buy vital aid, including food and hygiene items, for refugees fleeing their country.

Janine Allen, 24, of Hounsdown, Totton, who planned the walk with mum Fran and dad Ray, said: "The response has been unbelievable. We've already raised thousands of pounds."

"We've had donations from all over the place. We've even had t-shirts printed up and hats done just in case it gets really hot."

The walk, which has the backing of the British Red Cross, will follow a route from Totton through the Forest as far as Bournemouth and back. Overnight stops are planned at Lymington.

And it is hoped the walkers will be given licences for street collections in the areas they pass through.

"I think we're all looking forward to it now. We have a good group of different people from different backgrounds taking part. And hopefully we will be doing some good for the suffering people of Kosovo," said Janine.

The British Red Cross and Daily Echo Cash for Kosovo appeal has already topped the £150,000 mark thanks to big-hearted Hampshire people. The cash is being spent on food, blankets and medication for Kosovar refugees wrenched from their homes by Serb troops.

Anyone wishing to donate directly to the walk for Kosovo should contact the Allen family on 01703 871174.

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