A seasoned Shipley Strider is urging people to pull on their walking boots to help people living with cancer.

Rita Exley will take part in her fourth Shipley Stride on Sunday.

The 67-year-old retired clerk has raised in the region of £200 for Macmillan Cancer Support by joining the annual fundraiser and supporting the World's Biggest Coffee Morning in September.

Mrs Exley, of Frizinghall, said: "I have never had cancer but people in my family have been helped by Macmillan nurses and they cannot speak highly enough of them.

"Macmillan Cancer Support is a wonderful organisation that helps not only the person with cancer but also their family members and I know it makes a real difference to everyone involved."

The mum-of-four also plans to take part in Walk the Walk in Edinburgh and this year's Race for Life in Bradford's Lister Park next month to raise money for research into cancer.

But for now she is gearing up for a challenge closer to home.

"The Shipley Stride is good fun and it's nice to get up in the morning and tramp over the moors," said Rita. "There's a good atmosphere and people are very supportive along the way. You don't need to be an experienced walker."

Hundreds of people have already signed up for this year's annual fundraiser - backed by the Telegraph & Argus - and it's not too late to join them.

Bradford Macmillan fundraising manager Emma Lavelle-Wood said: "We are delighted that so many people have chosen to support us by taking part in the Shipley Stride. The money raised through sponsorship will help enable us to fund some Macmillan medical professionals and provide Macmillan grants in the Bradford area."

The success of the Shipley Stride, which started five years ago with 100 walkers, has inspired a nationwide fundraiser this year.

Macmillan's Walk Wonders - for people living with cancer - will see thousands stepping out on similar walks across the country to raise £1 million for the charity which offers practical, medical, emotional and financial support for people with cancer.

The Shipley Stride starts outside Bracken Hall Countryside Centre and takes in some of the area's most stunning scenery along a 5.5 miles circular route.

It is suitable for all ages and abilities and lone walkers are welcome.

Bradford Macmillan fundraisers have set their sights high and hope to beat the £25,000 raised last year.

Walkers signing up for this year's walk will all receive a free pedometer courtesy of nPower and can buy an exclusive Walk Wonders 2007 T-shirt to wear on the day.

To take part, complete the registration form and return it to the Bradford fundraising office, call Emma Lavelle-Wood on (01924) 232440 or visit www.macmillan.org.uk/walk.