A Norfolk couple with a love of walking will tackle their biggest challenge yet with a 12-hour trek this weekend.

With Peddars Way running close to their home in Thompson, near Watton, James and Julie Hadingham regularly enjoy long walks along the 46-mile route.

But today (Saturday) will see the couple attempt to walk the entire picturesque path, from Wells to Knettishall Heath, in Suffolk, to raise money for the cardiac units at two hospitals which cared for loved ones.

Mr Hadingham's father, Neville, from Wortwell, near Harleston, underwent valve replacement surgery at Basildon University Hospital two years ago, while Mrs Hadingham's mother, Joy Bullen, from Ellingham, near Bungay, received a heart transplant at Papworth Hospital 12 years ago.

Mrs Bullen's sister, Marion Ridgley, from Poringland, near Norwich, also underwent a heart transplant at Papworth, in Cambridge, earlier this year.

'The hospitals saved their lives and they wouldn't be here without all the doctors and nurses,' Mr Hadingham, 41, said. 'This is our way of showing our appreciation and saying thank-you. Hopefully our support will make a difference.'

The couple have already raised �1,500 in sponsorship, thanks in part to family members collecting on their behalf.

They planned to leave Wells at 5.30am and will be supported along the route by their families, who will meet them with food and drink and walk sections with them.

'It's been quite a family effort, with a lot of people getting involved. Everybody is chipping in,' Mr Hadingham added.

Click on www.justgiving.com/James-Hadingham to sponsor the couple.