A charity which provides meals for the needy has benefited from the stamina of the only woman to have reached the rank of sergeant major in the history of the Bermuda Regiment.

Marilyn Steede, who is now a personal assistant, raised just over $7,600 in April for Meals on Wheels by walking solo around the Island for 24 hours. She handed over a cheque to Gladys Madeiros from the charity this week.

This year's walk was the fifth completed by Ms Steede, who has raised tens of thousands of dollars over the years for good causes. She intends to encourage others to take part in next year's event.

"Every year donations drop approximately 50 per cent," said Ms Steede. "This year I received apology letters from several of my larger donors that they donated to the same organisation this year via the End-to-End Walk, but they assured me that they will continue to support my efforts in the future.

"I am still pleased with the funds that I did raise. These donors have become like friends to me now; it is usually the same people every year and I treasure their support. For only one person collecting, this is a good haul. I just wish that there was some tangible way that I could thank these dedicated supporters."

Ms Steede covered 121 miles this year, beginning her walk at Horseshoe Bay and looping around the Island several times before ending in Tucker's Town, St. George's.