“This will be a first for me, I’ve not raised funds for a charity since I was a child, that tells you how much I think I align with this great cause.”

In November 2023 I decided that my personal challenge in 2024 would be to walk the Bob Graham Round in the English Lake District. It is actually one of the ultimate challenges for long distance fell runners, but a fell runner I am not. Having spent 50 years enjoying the Lake District in so many ways I decided that to walk the Bob Graham Round over two days would take me to a place I love and be a big test for me.

My long time friend, Emma Aindow-Gregory, passed away at the age of 49 after living with bowel cancer for four and a half year, and it happens that Emma is the only person I know that has completed the Bob Graham Round in under 24 hours. One of Emma’s many magnificent achievements.

When I learnt that Michael, Emma’s husband, had set up The Orange Foundation charity, with its practical focus to be there for people living with cancer and their families when they most need support, and with the shared bond of the Bob Graham Round, it was clear that a great opportunity had come about for me to step up, no pun intended, and raise funds.

Linking my personal challenge to support this wonderful charity, created in memory of Emma, is already giving me added motivation and determination to prepare and complete the Round. I am sure Emma will be there for me when things get tough on the route.

‘You’ can help me in two ways. Firstly, pray for good weather (river crossings and bog trotting will be easier, as will navigation). Secondly, by making a supportive donation to The Orange Foundation. I am hoping to raise £1,000 in total.”