As I'm sure many of you already know a good friend of mine (and so many others) Martin Pears died suddenly last year, soon after being diagnosed with leukaemia. For the last few weeks of his life Martin (in his usual style) became the life and soul of the Youth Oncology Unit atChristieHospital in Manchester. The Unit cares for so many young people who have been diagnosed with cancer, just like Martin, and provides them with the best possible care and compassion. In an effort to acknowledge both the unit and Tin himself, Martin's family have set a target of £15000 which would enable Tin to get his own Christie leaf on their Tree of Hope. So many of his friends and family are undertaking various challenges / fundraising events and the total amount raised is already well over £5000. This is my effort to contribute...

The final Sunday in August (BH weekend) I am going to swim / walk from Windermere back home (as in Broughton in Furness, not London!!). The plan is to start at the lower end of Windermere, swim across, then walk below Grizedale to Coniston, swim across, climb up to Beacon Tarn, (you guessed it!) swim across, and finally walk home (to Broughton in Furness). Had a reccie and looks to be roughly around 10-11 hours (14-15 miles walking, 2-3 miles open water swimming). I will hopefully be supported by my family and friends as will need several wetsuit / walking boot changes and think towards the last swim I may be in need of some motivation!! Tea and cake back at finish for everyone who has helped / supported / etc...

I came up with this challenge because as far as I know it has never been done before and is local to theLake District, plus, is exactly as it says on the tin – a challenge!! Whilst I can't imagine Tin would have joined me I'm sure he would have toasted each swim with a pint!

My target is £1000 but would be great to raise as much money as possible for this fantastic cause so please give as much as you can and help me to remember Tin and help so many other young people just like him! THANK YOU!