The day that bowel cancer survivor Jane Denton takes on a gruelling 25-mile charity hike has a special significance.

For it will be a year to the day that Jane, from Westlinton, was discharged from hospital following surgery to remove a tumour.

Jane, 45, has signed up to take part in the Hadrian’s Wall Mighty Hike, to raise funds for the charity that supported her through her ordeal.

Having never really embraced exercise in the past, Jane feels the hike will be a big challenge.

“But I’m fully aware there will be many people far worse off than me also attempting to do this,” she said.

“With an estimated 600 people taking part (there is already a waiting list), I’m hoping that the camaraderie and support of such a big group will help carry my tired, aching feet along to the finish line,” added Jane.

Jane was diagnosed with bowel cancer at the end of January last year at the age of just 44.

“This came as a huge shock to me and my family,” she admitted.

After five weeks of daily chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Jane had her surgery last to June to remove the tumour, which she admits had thankfully shrunk significantly.

“Following my treatment I recovered well and went back to work part-time at the end of last August,” she said.

It was then that Jane decided to work on her strength and fitness.

She joined the gym and swims, as well as walking miles. “Twenty-five miles still feels pretty daunting though, but I’m determined to give something back to Macmillan Cancer Support,” she said.

“They have been absolutely amazing in the support they have given me.”

The walk takes place on Saturday, June 24 – from Hexham to Lanercost, following Hadrian’s Wall.

“Significantly this will be one year to the day that I was discharged from hospital following my surgery, so it seemed very fitting that I should take part in the walk,” said Jane.

“After I had been diagnosed it all went by in such a blur. But to be honest I have struggled mentally, and Macmillan have been there to give support,” she added.

Jane has set up a JustGiving page. It can be found at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jane-Denton

<hr>

She is just short of her £350 target. “I am so grateful for the support from family and friends with this,” she added.

“I couldn’t do it without their help.”