Two women who lost their husbands to cancer put on their trainers and walked 21.5 kilometres in memory of their loved ones to raise funds for the Malta Hospice Movement yesterday.

Evidently satisfied on finishing the walkathon, Nicky Schembri, 44, and Simone Brincat, 57, encouraged everyone to do something for others in need.

About 1,400 people participated in the 25th edition of the 2010 Land Rover Malta Marathon, which started in Mdina and finished at the Sliema ferries, a distance of almost 42 kilometres. The two widows were joined by their friend and work colleague Christine Attard, 53.

Apart from the health aspect of walking, Mrs Schembri and Mrs Brincat also wanted to raise awareness about the disease that took away their husbands and, at the same time, collect funds Hospice.

"I was inspired to take part because it was for the Malta Hospice Movement. I think it was my turn to do something for somebody else," Mrs Schembri said.

Her husband, Mario, an athlete and football player, lost his battle with cancer two years ago. "My husband was a tri-athlete and half-marathon runner. For me this is in his memory and for all the good work the Hospice did. It was my turn to do it."

(Video shows Nicky Schembri and Christine Attard)