MACMILLAN Cancer Support’s Skipton fundraiser is taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge to raise money for people affected by cancer.

Viki Power will take on the gruelling trek – including the summits of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough – as part of a six-strong family team.

Her stepdad, Andrew Ainley, was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in August, 2014.

He died in April last year, aged 68.

Viki, of Macmillan Cancer Support, said: "This isn't just about the charity I work for, it's about saying thank-you to the people who supported me and my family.

"Working at Macmillan, I've become well aware of how much cancer can affect whole families, but it wasn't until my stepfather received the diagnosis that I really understood.

"In the nine months that followed, we received incredible support from staff and volunteers at the Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Centre in Harrogate.

"Everyone we came into contact with made us feel comfortable, reassured, informed and supported."

Viki, 31, will be joined on the sponsored challenge – on August 6 – by her husband, Matt; brother, Will; sister-in-law, Aimee; cousin, Tom, and his girlfriend.

"We're training hard but enjoying it, too – discovering gorgeous walks on our doorstep," she added.

"It's definitely the biggest challenge any of us have ever done, however we're looking forward to the experience.

"Getting together before the day hasn't been easy, as Tom and his girlfriend, Amy, are flying over from Canada especially for the walk. Tom was really close to his uncle Andrew and he loves the Dales, so it will be really special to have him and Amy join us.

"We're looking forward to 12 hours of walking to catch up!"

She added: "Walking the Yorkshire Three Peaks will be a great way to remember Andrew, but also do our bit to say thank you for all the support we received when he was ill.

"It will be tough, but knowing the money we raise will help other families going through something similar will keep us going."

Others are welcome to join the team on the walk. Visit macmillan.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising-events/event-detail/1160/yorkshire3peaksmountainhike for more details.

Go to justgiving.com/AndrewAinley to sponsor Viki and her family.