For years I reported the news as a correspondent for the BBC.

In December 2025 the story suddenly became my own when I was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

But out of an awful diagnosis came something very positive. The people I once worked alongside in BBC newsrooms across the North East and Cumbria joined forces with my friends and family to take on a relay along the length of Hadrian's Wall over the weekend of the 5th, 6th and 7th of June 2026 - running and walking mile by mile to support the work of the MND Association.

120 people created an tidal wave of orange positivity to trek 84 miles in stages. One of those sections involved walking 15 miles through the night.

Your support will help fund vital research and provide care and support for people living with MND and their families. If you can donate, it would mean a great deal to me and to everyone taking part.

Sponsor us on here and your money will change the lives of people affected by motor neurone disease.

JustGiving will send your donation directly to the MND Association.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure – your details are safe, they’ll never sell them or send unwanted emails.

Thank you.