A 92-year-old woman from Letchworth is taking on a section of the Greenway route for the second consecutive year tomorrow.

The Comet: 92-year-old Joyce is taking on the Letchworth Greenway sponsored walk. Picture: Anna Priestley92-year-old Joyce is taking on the Letchworth Greenway sponsored walk. Picture: Anna Priestley (Image: Archant)

Joyce Doel, who lives in Norton Hall Farm, will take on the five-mile challenge to raise money for Garden House Hospice Care, the East Anglian Air Ambulance and the Letchworth Rotary Club’s charities.

Last year, the retired teacher raised almost £600 for the causes, and hopes to do the same this year.

Joyce told the Comet: “These charities that rely on fundraising donations and provide a valuable service for the local community.

“I know a number of people who have benefitted from the care provided by the hospice.

“I’m hopeful that I will be able to do it. I had a few problems and I feel I would be embarrassed if I don’t manage it, but I have determination to finish it. I feel fairly confident that I will complete it.

“I’m slightly nervous in some ways, but I’m looking forward to it.”

Joyce’s training has included walking to Embroiderers’ Guild meetings at the Letchworth Settlement and back home again – a round trip of 2.5 miles.

She also walks along the Greenway with her daughter Anna and swims regularly at Nuffield Health, where she is their oldest member.

She added: “I have been finding it hard to build up my mileage, but I persevere with my training activites even when my kness and back are feeling sore.

“I am determined to keep active and raise money for the charities.”