ARMED with a map, compass, plenty of sandwiches and an illuminated scroll, a group of ramblers are already celebrating the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

Five keen walkers set off from Brinkworth for Buckingham Palace to congratulate Her Majesty on a long and successful reign. The expedition is also a bid to raise money for the ailing parish church organ.

Jon Gambles, leader of the pack, is completing the 115-mile trek, lasting eight days.

Retired vet Jon, 56, said: "We aim to walk 15 miles a day, which is perfectly manageable. I'm looking forward to the fresh air, countryside and lots of sunny weather."

The merry crew, who left yesterday, will travel by car back to Brinkworth for the first few days, then stay at friends' houses and youth hostels, as they near the big city.

Builder Roger Pounder, 55, is also covering the full distance.

He said: "I decided to go all the way to get fit and raise lots of money. Hopefully the weather will stay warm."

But Gill Sherhod and her 17-year-old son, Jonathan, are making a joint effort of the event.

Gill, 40, said: "I'm doing the first three days and Jonathan will take the last leg. It will bring back memories because I used to live in London."

The walkers are re-enacting an event which happened 25 years ago, when two villagers marched to London for the Silver Jubilee.

But the event has grown since then 14 people are taking part this year.

It will cost around £13,000 to fully restore the antique organ in St Michael and All Angels Church in Brinkworth.

Avoiding roads, the ramblers will stick to public paths and by ways until they approach the final destination.

On reaching Putney Bridge in London, the ramblers also intend to have a mini-tour of the city.

Finally they will deliver their special jubilee scroll, handwritten in calligraphy, to the Queen at Buckingham Palace on Friday (May 10).

If you want to sponsor the group, contact Pat Taylor on 01666 510371.