Walkers step out in rain in memory of much-missed Portsmouth womanÂ

Mandy Edney organised Saturday's walk after her sister Leigh Worboys died in April.

Her sudden death from the condition she lived with her whole life inspired Mandy, from Landport in Portsmouth, to hold the fundraiser.

The charity walk, from Eastney swimming pools to Clarence Pier, in Southsea, raised £400 for the Epilepsy Society. It rained heavily throughout but this did not stop Mandy and her fellow walkers.

The event has spurred the 49-year-old on to continue organising fundraisers in the future.

She said: '˜It was a bit windy and cold but nothing would have stopped me from taking part, even if it was raining.

'˜We were expecting more people to come bu it was still a successful day.

'˜It was just important to get the message and awareness on epilepsy out there.'

As previously reported in The News, 43-year-old Leigh died after what is thought to have been a seizure.

She had been living with epilepsy since she was three and was described as a '˜big character' by Mandy and a '˜good laugh'.

Mandy added: '˜When I finished the walk I felt a sense of achievement and was proud of myself, I know Leigh would of been proud too.'

Although the sudden death of '˜happy-go-lucky' Leigh devastated her family and friends, by raising awareness of her condition, they will help other people in the future.

'˜Leigh would have been happy that we have turned the tragedy of her death into something positive by raising money for the Epilepsy Society,' Mandy said.

'˜So many friends I have known for years have suffered with epilepsy and I have only discovered they have it since this walk has been organised.'

Discussing her plans for more charity events, Mandy has decided she wants to do something light-hearted and fun which she knew her younger sister would of wanted.

She added: '˜Next time I'd want to do something wacky, maybe sit in a bathtub and have people pour beans over me.

'˜I'm sure I'd know a few people who would want to do that.'