A DAUGHTER whose bid take part in the London Moonwalk ended when she heard the devastating news that her father had suffered a heart attack as she she journeyed to the run has now helped to raise £3,400 in his memory.

Shona Cady and other members of Alan Ritchie's family raised the cash for Wiltshire Air Ambulance after the crew tried to save him when he was taken ill at his Pewsey home.

Mrs Cady said: "A On the 12th of May I was due to take part in the London moonwalk, but I did not make it to the event. On my journey I received the devastating news that my Dad had suffered a heart attack.

"The Wiltshire Air Ambulance attended my parents house but they were unable to save him.

"Although their efforts did not bring a positive outcome for our family we are still very grateful for their quick response, and the care they gave our Dad.

We have chosen Wiltshire Air Ambulance to show our gratitude, and support the amazing work they do."

The group set out on October 19, which would have been Mr Ritchie's 59th birthday, to tackle the 26 mile walk in his memory.

Mrs Cady said: "Myself and some of my family completed what was planned as a 26 mile walk but turned out to be 29. Our family had a lovely day together remembering Dad as we walked, mostly thinking he'd be laughing at us all - especially whilst trying to negotiate a barbed wire fence in the dark.

"We all managed to return in one piece, more or less.

"We can't thank people enough for the donations we have received the total has far exceeded our expectations

Mr Ritchie who was a pupil at Oare Primary and Marlborough Grammar School trained as a welder but went on to run his own firm Acorn Builders. He was married to Barb and had children Thomas, Shona and Kirsty and four grandchildren.

He was a big Tottenham Hotspur supporter and was a keen dancer. At the time of his death his widow said: "“We are all devastated but have been overwhelmed by the loving letters and tributes we have received. He was such a well-respected man, and these kind words will give the family some comfort during this time.”

To show support go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/shona-cady