Well, I’ve finally gone and done it and signed up to do the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride with Fran.

We pledged to do the bike ride twelve years ago, but following an unfortunate coccyx accident and the loss of Fran’s bike, we never quite managed it. The furthest we got was 39 miles.

Last year, after six years of trying, we managed to get from home to the Ferry Tavern, a distance of 35 miles.

Now the target is Blackpool, 62 miles from Manchester, so it’s going to be a challenge.

I’ve been inspired to do it by my sister Jane, who is running the London Marathon for the first time later this month, and by my mum, in her memory.

Very sadly, Mum died peacefully in her sleep on 6 January 2023, age 76, at The Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow.

I will be raising funds for the hospice and The Christie in Manchester.

Back in 2007, Mum had been diagnosed with breast cancer and moved in with Fran and me so that she could be supported whilst having chemotherapy and radiotherapy at The Christie throughout 2008. Mum always felt safe and cared for at The Christie and confident she was getting the best treatment.

Sadly, the cancer returned in 2021, and although treatable was not curable. As the disease progressed, Mum spent her final weeks in the care of The Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow. 

The hospice staff did an exceptional job of helping to care for Mum in her final weeks and were so kind and caring to her and the whole family.

These two organisations both showed immense compassion and care for Mum, and I cannot think of more fitting causes to support in her memory.