WALKERS who joined Barry-born weatherman Derek Brockway on an eight-mile charity stroll have so far raised more than £2,300 for a good cause.

Around 50 people joined BBC Wales weatherman walking Derek on the Barry to Rhoose trek in aid of the Velindre cancer centre.

The walk started in Barry, followed a route through the old docks along the coast to the most southerly point on mainland Wales, Rhoose Point.

Derek used the Vale expedition to launch his training regime for his Patagonia, South America, challenge in November next year where he will be adding to the £2,345.75 Velindre funds already raised on Sunday, November 30.

Derek said: “It went really well. We had a good turnout and we were so lucky with the weather.

“Peter’s Pies turned up with sausage rolls and I felt like a history teacher.

“There were lots of people from Barry and further afield. It was special not just for me, but Velindre as well. There were a lot of personal reasons for people being there.

“It felt like spring. I even arranged the weather – the weather Gods were on our side - and it was such a lovely walk.

“It was such a memorable day. To do something like that – the public response was overwhelming. Barry was shown off in its best light. I’ll never forget the walk and everyone enjoyed it. I felt like the Pied Piper and it was nice to catch up with some familiar places. It’s one of my favourite walks. On the train back we took up the whole carriage.”

He added: “I would like to thank everyone for their support.”

To express an interest in fundraising opportunities with Velindre, visit

www.velindrefundraising.com or call Velindre Fundraising on 029 2031 6211.

To support Derek and Velindre, you can also donate via www.justgiving.com/walkwiththeweatherman

Alternatively, text WWWM80 and an amount of £1, £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10 to 70070.