A SON is taking on a mammoth challenge in memory of his mother.
Mark Dutton will walk from Blackpool to The Christie hospital in Manchester to mark the 40th anniversary of his mum Barbara’s death, aged just 51.
The near 60-mile walk will raise funds for The Christie Charity, which supports the work of hospital where Barbara was treated.
Mark, who is originally from Northwich, said: “The Christie means a lot to me given the fact that my mum lost her battle with cancer there in 1984.
“I have raised funds for the charity over the years, including cycling from Land's End to John O'Groats in 2016.”
The 56-year-old continued: "The date marks the 40th anniversary of my mum’s passing.
“When I was a child, we would holiday each year in Blackpool, so it felt poignant to attempt to walk from the seaside town where we holidayed to the place where mum lost her battle with cancer on the actual date as a mark of respect."
Mark, who has lived in Stockport for the past 13 years, will not be alone when he embarks on the challenge.
Around 30 of his friends, family, and work associates will join him on this emotional journey, with some attempting to cover the full distance and others joining him for a few hours, including a couple of friends who are currently undergoing treatment at The Christie.
The walk will start on the promenade opposite Blackpool Tower at 6pm on Sunday (October 31).
Mark is hoping to arrive at The Christie at around 3pm the following day.
One of his friends, 65-year-old Ian Floyd, is planning to do the Manchester half marathon before catching the train to Blackpool to join Mark for the walk.
Lea Abell, mass participation events officer at The Christie Charity, said: “Mark’s dedication and commitment to honouring his mother while raising funds for The Christie Charity is truly inspiring.
“The support he is receiving from his friends, family and colleagues is a testament to the impact he is making.
“We are very grateful to Mark and everyone participating in the walk, and we wish them the best of luck.'”
To support Mark’s fundraiser, visit www.justgiving.com/page/mark-dutton-1713714519870.
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