Simon Hall was a great friend and an inspiring leader. His career in the Royal Marines, SAS and SBS was the stuff of legend.

We had many fantastic days together in the mountains and his death from pancreatic cancer was a devastating blow to all who knew him. He had always lived his life to the full, but at just 57 years old his life was cut short.

Simon only lived for six months after his diagnosis. Early diagnosis gives more time with family and friends, and can even allow for life-saving treatment. By supporting Pancreatic Cancer UK we can try and make that a reality.

I am a British Mountain Guide based in the French Alps. In January 2027 I am going to be swapping the high mountains for the big ocean and taking on possibly the toughest challenge of my life. Leaving from Portugal, I will be rowing solo across the Atlantic to French Guyana in South America.

This journey of 6000km will take 2-3 months. The route is seldom travelled, with most rowers taking the shorter route from the Canaries to the Caribbean. Extreme weather, huge waves and sharks will be just some of the challenges along the way.

If you can, please give generously to Pancreatic Cancer UK.