SCORES of people - including family members, friends, colleagues and well-wishers - braved the summer heat to take part in the Valleys Walk for Velindre, inspired by South Wales East AM Steffan Lewis' battle with cancer.

The walk, organised by the Plaid Cymru AM's sister Nia as a birthday present for her brother, began in Cwmcarn and ended some eight hot, sweaty and hard-earned miles later at Blackwood Rugby Club.

Even a fire on Twmbarlwm last night, which meant a last minute rearrangement of the route, could not deter the walkers from contributing to a fantastic cause.

AMs and MPs from all political parties were among those who took part in the event, which to date has raised £10,290, more than three times the original target.

Mr Lewis, 34, was diagnosed late last year with stage four bowel cancer and has undergone a gruelling battle against the disease, under the expert team at Velindre Hospital in Cardiff.

South Wales Argus politics reporter ian Craig was among the paticipants, and said: "This was such a great event.

"Spirits were bouyent when we gathered at Cwmcarn and remained high throughout the walk.

"It's a shame we had to miss out Twmbarlwm, but my aching feet are perhaps a little grateful of that.

"The fundraising target £3,000) has been absolutely smashed, which is testament to the warmth of feeling towards Steffan.

"I'm really proud to have played a small part in that."

Anyone wishing to donate to the cause can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com/fundraising/valleyswalkforvelindre