MORE than 30 members of The parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel helped raise in excess of £1,000 for charity Aid to the Church in Need.

A sponsored walk, organised by the parish's Aid to the Church in Need society, took place on July 24, with parishioners and friends taking part in the 5km walk from the church to Arrow Valley Lake.

The charity helps to support persecuted and suffering Christians. 

A spokesman for the society said they had managed to double their members since last year.

They said: "During the 5km walk from the church and around the Arrow Valley Lake, it was a chance to catch up with friends, meet new people and also spend time reflecting on the sufferings of Christians who are being persecuted for their faith around the world."

They added: "In addition, it was a bright, sunny morning in comparison to the torrential rain endured during last year's walk."

Following the walk, the group enjoyed refreshments in the parish gardens.

This is the second annual sponsored walk held by the society.