GAZETTE & HERALD: RAF officers from the joint services unit in Corsham are planning to feel the burn with a fire walk in aid of Lydia Cross.

At the end of February, 30 personnel will walk bare-foot across 20 feet of wood embers smouldering at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

They will receive two hours of motivational training beforehand to get them psyched up for the experience.

The training also claims to have long lasting benefits in their personal life, with increased awareness of how to achieve their goals, an enhanced view of their potential to succeed, a general ability to recognise when fear is preventing them from moving forward in their lives and what to do to change it.

Sergeant Christopher Powell, who organised the event said: "I'm really excited about doing it. I've spoken to people who have done it and the challenges they feel they can take on now are just phenomenal.

"You overcome this belief and the confidence it gives you is amazing."

The Gazette launched the Lydia Cross Appeal for the brave little girl who had both her legs amputated below the knee after contracting septicaemia following infection with the HIB virus when she was just two years old.

Lydia needs two pairs of artificial legs every year while she is growing, which will cost £12,000.

In December the appeal had been running for one year and we raised more than £53,000 but generous people across Wiltshire still want to help her and there are a number of charity events organised in her honour.

Sgt Powell said he hopes to raise £1,500. "Anything over that will be a bonus," he said.

He added: "I saw Lydia on television and was completely moved by the plight the family found themselves in through no fault of their own.

"Having met them I know they are such nice people and they deserve to be helped."

Gazette reporter Rachel Williams will be joining in the fire walk. Any sponsorship she makes will boost the Lydia fund. If you want to sponsor her call (01249) 654422.