THEY HAVE done it. The brave Grand Canyon Trekkers who left from Salisbury for America at the start of the month were making their way back home today after a week of walking.

They have raised over £50,000 for the Journal backed Stars Appeal. The team of 21, were made up of hospital staff, local business people and other Stars Appeal supporters.

Many expressed relief as they relaxed in Las Vegas following what was at times a gruelling and testing challenge.

Mandy Woodford, the new Commercial Manager for Salisbury FC, posted on Facebook: “I still can't quite believe I have trekked the Grand Canyon with some amazing people!

Mandy, who did the trek in memory of former Spire FM presenter Chris Ewington “with the full support and backing of his lovely wife Liezel” added: “It was a journey of a life time.”

The team were led by SpireFM’s Martin Starke. They will hiked to the Canyon floor, trekked through the challenging landscapes of the Havasupai Reservation and slept under the stars.

Jayne Prigent, owner of Jas Hair, posted a team picture on Facebook stating: “Wow we all did it!!! What a fab team. Every single person brought something special to the team of 21 - we have had such a great time.

“It was a real adventure which was tough, we walked for miles each day, camped out, vertically trekked, bitten to bites! The views have been stunning and I will never forget this special trek with such special people.”

Melissa Terry, the former Salisbury Journal sub-editor who did the trek in memory of her late husband said: “ It's been an emotional week and one I wouldn't have missed for the world.”

Peter Edge, owner of Crazy Costumes, said: “Thanks to everyone who donated, thanks to our guides and leaders, and thanks to the other Trekkers who made the trip so amazing just by being themselves.

Ben Andrew Kinsey , Director and joint founder at Wessex Timber Windows Ltd, posted: “ What an adventure, hard work, amazing views great people. So glad I've done this.

“This will stay with me forever. Thank you for your support all money raised will help the StarsAppeal so much and I hope that the money will help people with breast cancer and help them fulfil their dreams and get to see sights like this.”