This day (25th of March) last year, my very dear friend Martin (many of you will have heard me refer to him as Mr McKay) lost his battle with cancer.


For 10 years (since I moved to the UK) he was my walking buddy, pillar of support and a true friend. He introduced me to the undulating fields and tranquil coasts of Kent and Sussex and ignited my love of walking and rambling through the countryside. So it seems fitting then, that I remember him in this way.


I have decided to raise money for Macmillan charity who help thousands of people every year as they and their families come to terms with this horrible illness. One in two of us will have cancer in our lifetime and the help and support offered by Macmillan will no doubt offer us all some level comfort during these most difficult times.


My inaugural event in his memory took me to the Gower Peninsula, where I walked 26 miles with Macmillan - a fantastic day and a great way to experience and enjoy South Wales. This year I'm taking on another 26 miles in the Peak District - a bit more up McKay's street with more drama and opportunities for harum scarum... We'd go for what was intended to be a walk, and I'd have to prise him away from any rock, cliff face or other ravine. Whenever I was with him, I was the sensible one!


I would love to reach my target of £2,500 – any donations, big or small would go a long way in helping Macmillan help others.


I have The Proclaimers song "500 miles" in my mind again! It was one of Martin's favourites and I mentioned it in my previous fundraising story as a bit of a lighthearted joke. However, I'll be just over a 10th of the way there following this walk... and as he often said, "to rest is not to conquer".


Thanks for supporting my fundraising. Macmillan gives people with cancer everything they’ve got. If you’re diagnosed, your worries are Macmillan’s worries. Macmillan’s doing whatever it takes. But without your help, Macmillan can’t support everyone who needs them. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure. Your details are safe, JustGiving - they'll never sell them or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs.