people are being asked to step out in memory of a baby who died from meningitis, in a bid to help other youngsters affected by the disease.

Lily-Hollie died in 2008 after contracting meningitis and, since her death, her grandmother, Linda Helliker, of Chichester Close, Withycombe, has tirelessly fund-raised for the Meningitis Trust.

The Lily-Hollie memorial walk will be held on Sunday, August 7, setting off from Exmouth docks at 2pm.

The eight-mile sponsored walk, now in its fourth year, is suitable for all ages and abilities and can be a gentle stroll or a stride.

The route takes walkers along the seafront and beyond, and those taking part can tackle as much or as little of the route as they wish.

Dog owners are welcome to bring along well-behaved pets on leads and they can also be sponsored for the event.

Meningitis Trust spokeswoman Jo Campbell said the charity was reliant on voluntary donations.

She said: “The services, support and education provided by the Meningitis Trust are a lifeline for people in the UK whose lives have been affected by meningitis.”

Mrs Helliker’s world changed forever on Good Friday 2008 when her son Philip, then 37, a former Exmouth Community College pupil, telephoned from his Army quarters in Germany, where he was serving with the 5th Battalion of the Rifles, to say his beloved four-month-old daughter Lily-Hollie had died in his arms.

To join the sponsored walk, contact Jo Campbell on 0845 120 0664, email joannec@meningitis-trust.org or telephone Linda Helliker on (01395) 272264.