A WOMAN who is completing an epic journey across the UK to raise money for Cancer Research stopped off in Westbury on Friday evening and has since praised the town.

Vyv Wood-Gee departed from Mormond, Aberdeenshire, on June 18 with her two ponies, Mickey and Magic, and is hoping to raise £20,000 for the charity by completing the three month expedition.

On Friday, September 2, after she had already travelled around 1,180 miles, the 58-year-old stayed at the aptly named Horse and Groom pub while her equine friends stayed at Hillcroft Stables.

Mrs Wood-Gee said: “It had been a really tough day on Friday, but everyone in Westbury gave me an incredible welcome when I got to the stables and instantly cheered me up.

“I have visited all of the White Horses in Wiltshire on my journey and Westbury’s one is my favourite by far – I love how the town embraces it and uses it as an iconic symbol.

“Since leaving Westbury, both its White Horse and residents have left a lasting impact on me and I’m really glad I visited it.”

Mrs Wood-Gee, who lives near Lockerbie in Scotland was prompted to take the challenge on after losing three friends to cancer in the space of 20 years.

She hopes to finish the expedition in Thoulstone, Kent, and would also like to travel through London so that she can complete her lifetime wish of riding over Tower Bridge.

She said: “If I’ve got enough time and energy left, the final leg of my journey will be up to London, over Tower Bridge via Horseguards Parade.

“But having remaining energy could be a long shot as this has been the first long distance ride of three which I am finding difficult

“I don’t think a day has gone by when I haven’t asked myself why I’m doing it, but then I remember the reason and it keeps me going.

“I know that, with help, we can make a real difference to peoples' lives.”

To donate, visit: http://m.virginmoneygiving.com/mt/uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=horselandjourney