POLITICIANS proved they could stand the heat at the weekend as they walked across hot coals to raise money for the North London Hospice.

Enfield Southgate MP David Burrowes was joined by fellow Conservative Theresa Villiers, MP for Chipping Barnet, Haselbury ward councillor Pat Ekechi and pub regulars in taking off shoes and socks to cross smouldering coals in aid of the hospice – which provides emotional and practical support for residents with terminal illnesses.

The coal pit was set up at the Jolly Farmers pub, in Enfield Road, with local band The Soul Agents providing musical backing to the firewalkers’ efforts free of charge.

Mr Burrowes said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of completing the world’s shortest and hottest sponsored walk.

“It was great to join a number of local people and my neighbour MP, Ms Villiers, in raising money for North London Hospice.

“I raised almost £1,200, which will go towards the great work that the hospice is doing within the local community.”

Ms Villiers said: “It was pretty nerve-racking, but I’m really pleased I managed to complete the firewalk challenge for such a great cause. I survived the ordeal with no problems other than a couple of blisters.”

The hospice, which is in the middle of building a day centre in Winchmore Hill, provides free end-of-life support for patients and families living with a terminal illness. It relies on donations and legacies to fund the care for three out of every four patients.

Deborah Mosdall from the hospice said: “It was wonderful to see members of the community, along with MPs and councillors, come together to put themselves through this challenge to raise money for their local hospice.

“The new centre in Barrowell Green will be opening early in 2012, and as a charity we rely on donations and legacies to make our care possible.”