My brother Ted was a Basildon firefighter. He loved the job and gave it everything he could.  In 2000 he was diagnosed with stomach cancer with not a great prognosis.  At 52, that was a huge shock.  He battled against the illness, trying to ignore it actually and managed to be rated fully fit and back to work about a year after diagnosis.  Unfortunately, the cancer returned and spread.  He died in Basildon Hospital in May 2002.  His mates at Basildon Fire Station gave him a truly memorable send-off with a procession through the town to the crematorium.

So why am I raising money for Havens Hospice?  Because it's been my great pleasure to work with them on many occasions on BBC Essex and I know how desperate they are to upgrade their facilities to provide a more comprehensive service for the people of south Essex.  Also, I was born in Southend and still love the place.  Hospices do such a brilliant job for all of us and need all our help.  Unfortunately there was not time for Ted to get hospice care - his end was too fast and there was a lack of immediate space when he needed it. 

I just want this walk to be a thank you, albeit belated, to Ted.  It's also to help other people in the Southend area who find themselves in the position that my family did.  Thanks so much for your support - I shall do my best not to collapse half way round!