It was October 2016 when we lost mum after a six and a half year battle to cancer. Those who know me well will know how much watching her fight, and eventually loosing her, has affected me and also my family.

Last year as a family we went to watch my step-dad complete the Great North Swim in her memory, on her birthday to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. We were inspired and all swore we would be back to have a crack ourselves this year. As time has gone on, more family members and friends have got roped in, so there will be a good group of us.

I run a swimming school and like to think I’m not a bad swimmer. But I’ve not really done any personal swim training myself for years, and I’ve never been involved in an open water event. Those of you who know how much I hate the cold, will know this is a big challenge for me.

But it’s for an amazing cause. Prior to her illness Mum was always so positive about Macmillan as a charity and used to donate to them. They were a massive support to her in the last few months of her life.

Taking part in this swim is a great way to remember her and the way she lived. She was always fearless about going into cold water. I know she’d love that this is how we will all be getting together to remember her on her birthday weekend. In the Lake District, one of her favourite places. I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate her birthday and her life.

Sorry to pull on heart strings but I want everyone to know how much this means to me and I wish to generate as much support as possible. Please give generously.

Thanks so much