STAFF at Meadowside are quite literally going the extra mile for the people they care for – by taking on a fire walk to raise money for the Newton Abbot charity.

Colleagues Vikki, Kerry and Charlie will swap their usual working day for a walk across hot coals when they take part in the fundraising event at Newton Abbot Racecourse on Friday, October 9.

The trio are among more than 25 people who have signed up for the challenge, which is being organised by Rotary Newton Abbot and has already raised around £3,200 for various charities.

For the Meadowside staff, the event is a chance to raise money for the organisation they know and care about every day.

Vikki said: ‘I am really looking forward to this challenge and being able to support the charity’.

Kerry added: ‘We are aiming to raise money to enhance the lives of the people we care for, making every day count.”

Meadowside is a local charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and older people.

It provides 24-hour permanent residential care for 11 adults with learning disabilities.

Rotarian Martin Smith said the event was an opportunity for people to support causes that matter to them.

The fire walk begins at 6pm, with participants paying a £25 entry fee, unless their chosen charity covers the cost.

Walkers are asked to raise a minimum of £75 in sponsorship.

Late entries will be accepted until Thursday, October 8.

Anyone who does not fancy taking on the fire walk themselves can still attend and support the participants, with spectator entry costing £2.50.

There will also be free parking, food and refreshments and charity stalls supporting local causes.

Mr Smith, who is also a trustee of the Meadowside, is also encouraging people to find out more about the charity’s recently renovated Coronation Hall, which provides respite care for carers in Newton Abbot and surrounding areas.

The centre offers half- and full-day respite, giving carers the opportunity to take some time for themselves while their loved ones are looked after by trained staff.