A former sergeant major who raises cash for charity each year by walking solo around the Island for 24 hours is going it alone again next week.

Marilyn Steede will set out on her walkathon in aid of Meals on Wheels at 6 a.m. on March 31 and will keep trekking until the same time the next day.

Her journey will see her covering about 125km as she loops around the Island with just a driver beside her for protection and to carry her refreshments.

Ms Steede, the only woman in the history of the Bermuda Regiment to have reached the rank of sergeant major, revealed yesterday that next year she plans to have some company.

She said she intends to invite others to join her for a bigger, more high-profile event. "It's going to be an exciting event next year and those who take part should start training now. I know people think they can't do it, but I know they can. Once the adrenaline starts, that will be it."

She said anyone thinking of taking part this year would not be able to because they wouldn't have the required permits - though she said cheering from the sidelines was more than welcome. Ms Steede, a personal assistant, asked that vehicle owners not clog up the roads by following her this year to show support as it can cause traffic and safety problems.

The walkathon began in 2003 and has since raised thousands of dollars for Bermuda Stroke Association, Age Concern and Bermuda Heart Foundation.

Anyone wishing to sponsor this year's walk should e-mail marilynsteede[AT]hotmail.com