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Zachary Reed (centre), before cutting the ribbon to start the Stars Appeal's sponsored Walk for Wards, at Wilton House. DB4335P08

BRAVE Zachary Reed led the way as more than 600 people took part in the annual Walk for Wards on Sunday.

The eight-year-old, who has cerebral palsy and hydrocephalus, also known as water on the brain, was asked to cut the ribbon and start the event which is expected to raise £35,000 for Salisbury District Hospital's Stars Appeal.

As regular visitors to the hospital, Zachary and his family know more than most the importance of the Appeal's Caring 4 Kids Campaign, which will provide a new state-of-the art treatment centre for young patients.

Zachary, who is also partially sighted, was joined on the walk by his mum Claire, brother Ethan and sister Megan - and between them they raised almost £300 for the appeal.

"Zachary found it very tiring but he was determined to complete the walk," said Claire.

"We had lots of breaks and everyone was very supportive - there was a great atmosphere.

"The staff at the hospital are always brilliant with him but it will be better when it's more like home there.

"We were really pleased when they asked Zachary to start the walk, it was a big day for him. He had a real sense of achievement and we want to thank everyone for making it possible."

This was the second time the event was held at Wilton Estate with the walkers choosing either a three km or ten km route through Lord Pembroke's grounds.

Everyone from newborn babies in prams to people in their 80s took part in the Walk for Wards including several members of hospital staff along with patients and their families.

"This was about the community getting out to support its local hospital," said director of fundraising Dave Cates. "The weather was lovely and the atmosphere was quite incredible."

Chair of the Appeal Lisa Stratton explained how the fundraising would help to transform the experience of going to hospital for young patients and everyone who took part in the walk was provided with refreshments by the event's sponsors.

10:32am Thursday 26th June 2008

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