SCHOOL friends Judith Bamford and Lydia Ambage are teaming up again to help refugees in strife-torn parts of the world.

The teenagers are among 500 people expected to take part in the annual sponsored walk at Trentham Gardens on March 20.

The walk is organised by John Bamford, from Fountain Court, Biddulph, on behalf of the North Staffordshire Christian Aid committee.

Judith, aged 12, is John's daughter, and attends Westlands high school, Congleton, where her friend and fellow walker Lydia, aged 13, is also a pupil.

''About £23,000 was raised by last year's walk, and we are hoping to beat £25,000 this year,'' said Mr Bamford.

The route of the walk follows a track around Trentham Lake, a distance of 2.5 miles, with the maximum distance allowed for walkers being 10 miles.

Numerous churches are expected to take part, including Trinity, Wellspring and the URC in Congleton, and the Methodist church, St John's and St Lawrence's in Biddulph.

Sponsor forms are available from the churches or Mr Bamford by ringing 01782-516137, and walkers should use the main entrance to Trentham.

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