[A] Cockermouth woman is nearing the end of a 500km walking challenge in memory of her grandfather.
Rebecca Forrest, 35, of Williams Grove, has completed four Ultra Challenge 100km walks – and has one final event to go.
She has raised more than £500 for the charity Dementia UK. Her grandfather Frank Hill, who died in April aged 93, suffered from the disease.
Mrs Forrest said: “The challenges have been an incredibly tough, yet amazing, experience.
“I’ve never done anything like this before. I’ve had horrendous blisters on every walk and even lost toenails. Fatigue and exhaustion have kicked in at times too, especially when walking overnight, but I’ve always been determined to get to the finish line for my grandad and for a brilliant cause.
“Dementia is a terrible disease that affects so many families. My nan, who is still alive, has dementia, and my other nan had it before she died many years ago. It is tough to deal with and that is why the services of Dementia UK are so vital.
“Dementia UK does fantastic work and I’m really happy to support a cause that is close to my heart.”
The fundraiser, who works at the Old Keswickian fish and chip shop in Keswick, will complete her last 100km challenge along the Thames Path in London on Saturday and Sunday, September 9 to 10.
She will walk non-stop overnight, without sleeping, and aims to finish in just over 24 hours.
Her previous challenges, which are organised by Action Challenge, have included walks around the Isle of Wight, along the Cotswold Way, and from London to Brighton.
To donate to Mrs Forrest’s challenge visit www.justgiving.com/Rebecca-Forrest5
