FRIENDS from Stroud are to ‘yomp’ just over 100 miles in memory of a Royal Marine and a much loved wife who helped raise money for injured servicemen.

In June 2010 Royal Marine Richard Hollington (23), of Stroud, died of wounds he suffered in Afghanistan. Last April, fundraiser Monica, the wife of Clive Waller, also from the village, died of cancer.

The non-stop race along the South Downs, the ‘Since 1664 Yomp,’ is viewed as one of the toughest challenges outside of the armed forces.

It fundraises for wounded marines, and the families of those who have died.

Called the ‘Wallerbies’ in memory of Monica, the Stroud team will also be supporting The Rosemary Foundation from Petersfield, whose nurses give end of life care at home.

Clive covered the event entry cost in thanks for care provided to his wife, who helped fundraise for the Help for Heroes charity.

He said: “I am indebted to The Rosemary Foundation.”

Team captain Lionel Fanshawe added: “The idea is to fundraise for charities that, in one way or another, celebrated the lives of friends.”

To sponsor the team visit secure.artezglobal.com/registrant/TeamFundraisingPage.aspx?teamID=74730#&panel1-4