Between 1 July and 30 September, I’m taking on the challenge of walking a million steps to raise much-needed funds for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth, which looks after terminally ill people at home, in hospital and at Turnchapel, helping them live well to the end of their lives.

It’s my privilege to be Finance Director at the charity, so I see first hand how the efforts of all our supporters help pay for the care St Luke’s provides free of charge to those who need it. I thought it was about time I did my bit!

It’s also a way for me and my sister Carol – who is also taking on the challenge, to say thank-you for the superb care given to our beautiful mum Christine before she died in 2002.

St Luke’s was a beacon of light for our family at an incredibly difficult time. The team was so kind, helping dad and us to deal with some of the day-to-day challenges you don’t expect. The practical support and advice we received in addition to the specialist care they gave mum at home and at Turnchapel made such a difference.

With your help, I’m aiming to raise £1,000 for a complete package of care and support for a family at home so that they, too, will know the reassurance and kindness St Luke’s provides. Let the steps begin!