The biggest-ever charity walk in the South West came to a triumphant end yesterday after raising £150,000 for good causes and highlighting the beauty of the region's coastline.

Over the past month, people of all ages and backgrounds have joined in the Western Morning News Great South West Walk, fired by their determination to do what they can for those less fortunate.

Walkers of all abilities, old and young, seasoned fundraisers and first-timers all came together with a single cause in mind.

Alan Qualtrough, editor of the WMN, which organised the huge event backed by generous sponsors, said: "It was a resounding success and we say a huge thank you to everyone who took part."

The funds raised by the walkers, corporate sponsors, daily auctions, two golf days and donations from members of the public, will be divided between the RNLI, Macmillan Cancer Support, and the Wooden Spoon, a charity which helps disadvantaged children.

Jo Owen, from Modbury in South Devon, has completed the vast majority of the 630-mile coastal path, despite suffering injury, and has become its unofficial "mascot".

On nearing the end of her goal, Mrs Owen, who aimed to raise £1,000, said: "It's been such an achievement."

She said she had lost track of how much money she had raised.

"It's a story of unsung heroes," she added. "It's someone walking because you inspired them - I've had two or three people coming up and saying that. It's a mental and physical journey."

James Bloye from Launceston also completed the whole route, raising funds for all three charities. He said: "I thought this would be a great opportunity to see the coast and raise money for good causes."

Mrs Owen said she had been stunned when members of the public told her they had been buying the Western Morning News to follow her progress, and thanked the paper for organising the event and encouraging her when she felt ready to give up.

"I think I'm just lucky to have done it," she added.

Many local businesses came out to sponsor the walk, making sizeable donations and encouraging their employees to join in. Jane Lister, managing partner of Foot Anstey solicitors, said: "We are delighted to be involved in a project that celebrates our wonderful environment while raising money for such deserving charities."

Malcolm Bell, chief executive of South West Tourism, said: "If we had to be left with just one tourist attraction in the South West, then I would proudly opt for it to be the South West Coast Path. It really is a region any other country would love to have. The Great South West Walk is not only using it, but bringing it to other people's attention."

Michael Pelosi, managing director of Northcliffe Media, which owns the Western Morning News, said he was delighted to be able to be a part of the campaign. He said: "The campaign is marvellous. It shows great community support and what our newspapers and media businesses can do by bringing the community together and walking for great causes."

Businessman Paul Plummer, from Plymouth, walked yesterday's final leg. He said he had been encouraged to join by his partner, who works at the WMN, and had thoroughly enjoyed it. He took three collection tins with him on the walk - one for each charity - and had been encouraging everyone, both other walkers and passers-by, to donate.

"It's been good fun - good exercise and lots of fresh air. I think it's a great idea because it's raising money and awareness for good causes," he said.

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