A GROUP of West Somerset mothers are on a mission to raise funds for new science and technology equipment for the eight schools which form the Moorland Federation.

The women, collectively known as the ‘Moorland Mums’, hope to raise £700 by walking the Exmoor National Park boundary.

The epic 90-mile walk is expected to take them four days, covering a gruelling section of the South West Coast Path, moorland, and steep valleys.

They will set out on March 19 and have already raised more than £200 with a GoFundMe online appeal page.

One of the women, Jasmine Willford, said: “In West Somerset, just 14 per cent of children go to university, compared with a national average of 27 per cent.

“We aim to raise funds for equipment and learning experiences that will give our kids a head start, helping them to break down barriers to achieve their full potential by giving them the very best start at our lovely village schools.

“Your support will directly help first schools in the small rural villages of Cutcombe, Exford, Porlock, Timberscombe, Dunster, Dulverton, Langford Budville.

“This cause means so much to us and the next generation of West Somerset.”

The women previously raised more than £9,700 for Cutcombe First School’s swimming pool upgrade project by completing the Three Peaks Challenge in October, 2024.

They were able to meet the cost putting in a new liner, heater, filtration system, chemical store, and a pump, while the outcome of a match funding application is still awaited for a cover for the pool.

The women have been building up their walking endurance strength with regular outings covering up to 20 miles, including tough sections of the coast path.

Three of the team also took part last autumn in the Man v Horse event on the Quantock Hills where people try to outrun horses.