THREE students at Joseph Rowntree School in York have found an energetic way to spend their time after taking their GCSEs.

Emily Fowler, Heather Welsh and Vikki Coulthard, all aged 16, donned backpacks and hiking boots on Monday to begin a 270-mile sponsored walk for SNAPPY (Special Needs Activities and Play Provision For York).

The friends are attempting the Pennine Way walk, hiking 16 miles a day over three weeks and staying at campsites and youth hostels along the way.

Emily said they were hoping to raise about £700 for charity.

She said: "It's something we all wanted to do and we thought if we were going to do something like that then we might as well do it for a good cause. People think we're mad, but it'll be good fun."

To sponsor the girls contact Emily Fowler on 01904 768715.

Updated: 10:05 Thursday, June 26, 2003