THE Sikh and Hindu communities in Swindon have raised more than £4,000 for Prospect Hospice.

Throughout the year the groups have taken part in the Starlight fundraising walk and even climbed Mount Toubkai in Morocco as part of Team Rock Moroc to raise money for the charity, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

Meena Ladwa, of Freshbrook, who took part in the 4,167m climb back in June, said some of the group have been climbing since 2005.

“This was definitely the most difficult we have ever done,” she said.

“The terrain was so dry and we all had falls during the trek. The stifling heat also meant that this would be the hardest trek that any of the group had previously attempted.

“It was a tremendous achievement by everyone, especially when our guide had told us that he thought not everyone would make it.

“The view from the top of the mountain was unforgettable and made the trek all the more worthwhile.

“The trek back down was no easier due to its steepness.

“However, two days later and we were back in Marrakech, looking back on a fantastic experience.

“The trek had been extremely demanding, but was thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding.

“We all said we would never do it again when we finished, but we have all got itchy feet already.”

Meena praised the work of the hospice, and said it is a worthwhile charity to support.

“Prospect is a charity close to everyone’s heart,” she said.

“In our community, it is often the children who look after their elderly parents, but this is much better because they can be looked after and made comfortable by people who have excellent knowledge.”

Sheryl Crouch, the head of fundraising at Prospect Hospice, said: “We are very grateful to the Sikh and Hindu communities of Swindon for the support they have given us.

“This is a fantastic amount of money to raise and we are delighted.”

The Marlborough Starlight Walk 2010 takes place on September 11.

To find out more about the hospice visit the website at www.prospect-hospice.net.