A HANDFORTH pensioner is celebrating her 90th birthday – by walking over a bed of hot embers.

Norah Wilshere, of Woodlands Road, will take part in a firewalk on Sunday, October 16, to raise money for the British Red Cross.

The grandmother-of-seven and great-grandmother-of-two has worked in therapeutic care and first aid with the charity for nearly 40 years and refuses to slow down.

As a much celebrated, admired and dedicated volunteer, Norah continues to work at HM Prison Styal and the Redesmere Centre for adults with learning and physical difficulties on a weekly basis.

Norah told friends and family she wanted “no presents and no fuss” for her birthday on Thursday, September 29, and instead asked to do something “daring” for the charity.

“I'm delighted to be able to use my birthday as an opportunity to raise money for the Red Cross and keep my feet warm at the same time,” she said.

Norah is already close to her £2,000 fundraising target, with time remaining ahead of the big day.

Her family will be accompanying her on the walk, and Barbara Wilshere, her daughter, already has experience in walking over hot embers.

“At first we considered skydiving, but we felt it might have been too much, so we thought about doing a firewalk,” Barbara said.

“We’re all really looking forward to it, and to celebrating afterwards.

“It doesn’t burn your feet if don’t run or stop on the embers, so we should be fine!”

The firewalk will take place from 12.45pm at The Bridge Hotel, in Prestbury, and supporters are welcome to cheer Norah on and join the family for a celebratory drink.

To donate to the British Red Cross for the occasion, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/norahwilshere.