A former sergeant major has spent 24 hours walking around the Island to help others — for the sixth year running.

Personal assistant Marilyn Steede (right), the only woman to have reached the rank of sergeant major in the Bermuda Regiment, completed her annual 24-hour walkathon during the last weekend in March.

She hopes her achievement will raise about $10,000 for the Reading Clinic, which helps those with dyslexia improve their literacy skills.

Ms Steede said: "This year, I did not strive for maximum miles covered in the period, but instead, I just trekked at a steady pace to keep moving for the duration of the time period."

Janet Kemp, director and psychologist at the Reading Clinic, said the charity was delighted with the support and would use the money for bursaries for children in need of financial help.

"Most of the drivers who accompanied Marilyn on the walk were parents of children in tutoring," said Dr. Kemp.

"Some of them brought their children with them, which gave them the opportunity to appreciate Marilyn's effort

"Those of us who walk a few miles every day are amazed that Marilyn can endure 24 hours of walking without a break. I met up with her at around 2 p.m. after she had been walking for nine hours and at that point her feet were 'burning'.

"To be honest, I was worried at that point that Marilyn would struggle with the remainder of the walk. However, I met up with her around 8 p.m. in Somerset Village and she was walking at a faster pace than before."

Dr. Kemp added: "We extend our thanks and that of our parents and students to her for her generosity."

Donations can still be made until May 31. Please email marilynsteede@hotmail.com.