A LOCAL women’s club are set to get their walking boots on in memory of a beloved member who lost her battle with cancer.

Despite Barnsley Opals Women’s Institute (BOWI) having over 60 members, each one is treated like family.

The club were devastated to have lost member, Devina Firth, last year following a short fight with bile duct cancer.

Devina left behind her two daughters, Charlotte and Nicola, with Charlotte describing her mum as a ‘powerhouse’.

Devina’s innate kindness was well-suited to her vocation as a mental health nurse, where she supported vulnerable patients.

Charlotte said: “Mum was a powerhouse.

“She advocated for anyone who came her way in her job as a mental health nurse, a job she was well-suited for.

“She was a protector for the vulnerable, loved the outdoors and just loved life.”

As a nature lover, Devina enjoyed connecting with the outdoors and going on strolls.

To honour Devina’s memory, BOWI have committed to a challenging walk in support of Barnsley Hospice - who provided her with specialist care and support.

The Barnsley boundary walk is a roughly 73-mile trek, which the group have set out to complete across four days.

The fundraiser will take place from March 21-22 and March 28-29.

So far, the group are well on their way to double their original target, raising £420, smashing their goal of £250.

Becca Beynon, BOWI president, told the Chronicle that the fundraiser would be ‘a team effort’.

She said: “Devina was a keen walker and absolutely loved getting outside.

“She was also a member of Barnsley Ladies Outdoor Group.

“When Devina passed, we decided that a walk would be a fitting tribute.

“We’re supporting Barnsley Hospice - her daughters said they provided the best level of care.

“Devina was a really kind and lovely person with a great sense of humour.

“We’re all looking forward to getting together and raising this money in her memory.”