A 94-year-old Co Down woman has raised thousands for Macmillan Cancer Support by staying on her feet during the coronavirus lockdown.
Maureen Lightbody, from Groomsport, set out to walk a thousand paces every day until her 95th birthday in July.
Inspired by English centenarian Captain Tom Moore, she hoped to raise £1,000.
However, within just a day of her JustGiving page going live, she had already raised more than seven times that amount.
Mrs Lightbody said every pound put another spring in her step and gave her confidence to continue.
“When I started the challenge, it was about doing something worthwhile during the Covid-19 crisis. Having lost my husband to cancer, I wanted to raise £1,000 for Macmillan.”
She said she was overwhelmed by the generosity of people and was also learning new things through her challenge.
“It’s fascinating, the little details that I’m noticing when I’m out and about completing my walk every single day. It all helps to motivate me and keep me focused on my goal.”
MacMillan spokeswoman Jan Forrest said the charity was enormously grateful to Mrs Lightbody.
Donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/maureenlightbody
