All invited to Ovarian Cancer Action walk in memory of Barry grandmother Lesley Woolcock

Mrs Woolcock died, aged 47, in 2016.

She successfully fought to receive the life-prolonging drug Avastin following her diagnosis in 2014 and became a prominent campaigner - raising awareness of early diagnosis for ovarian cancer.

She raised thousands of pounds for charity - all while undergoing treatment.

Her sister Alison Woolcock, who at 47 is the same age that Lesley was, has organised the Walk In Her Name event which last year attracted 300 people.

The walk will start in Cemetery Approach, Barry, at 12pm.

The entry fee of £10 per person for every person who takes part with money going to Ovarian Cancer Action.

Ms Woolcock said: “The route will take us down Tynewydd Road along Gladstone Road and then across the Waterfront until we get to Lesley’s bench over on the gardens on Barry Island.

“After a short break where some snacks and drinks will be provided then walkers can walk back along the same way

“Along the way Ed Close has offered to play music to ensure that the walk is a celebration of the people whom we are honouring but also to keep up enthusiasm and help the walkers each step of the way

“Afterwards walkers are welcome to congregate in the Tynewydd Inn where there will be the opportunity to socialise and share memories and stories of those who we are walking for, have a drink, food and rest

“The Friends of Barry Cemetery will have the church in the cemetery open for people to light candles in remembrance of those who are sadly no longer with us.”

She added: “I appreciate that it’s Mother’s Day, but choosing this day recognises the stolen moments that these families face in not having their loved one around anymore.

“What this event also shows is that families are more than just blood connections.

“Barry has a close and loving community and an attitude of supporting one another.

“Cancer effects so many people and Walk in her Name allows us to show our love, support and respect for these individuals.

“The event raises funds for Ovarian Cancer Action.

“Last year around 300 people took part.

"We should have the same amount of people, if not more this year

“The event raises funds for Ovarian Cancer Action who campaign to raise awareness of the importance of early diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

The aim is to raise awareness of ovarian cancer, so that if a woman has the symptoms - frequent weeing, bloated stomach, struggling to eat and stomach pain- then ovarian cancer can be ruled out an early stage.

“This early diagnosis is the difference between life and death.”

Survival rates from ovarian cancer have not improved since the 70.

“It’s important that we try to give women in Britain better outcomes,” said Ms Woolcock.

“Myself and other family members were lucky enough to visit the Ovarian Cancer Action Research Laboratory in London last year and saw for ourselves the attempts that are being made to understand and improve diagnosis and treatment

“Lesley would love the fact that her family continue to campaign on this issue.

“We saw for ourselves, how this horrible disease stole Lesley’s life and stopped her from being here today.

“Lesley has three beautiful grandchildren who she doesn’t get to see, a husband who pines for her and just so many people who miss her smile and love of life.

“This event reflects Lesley’s love of life, people and socialising.

“It especially recognises her belief that everyone has something special and unique about them which should be celebrated.

“Lesley would be honoured to be featured among the people who we Walk in her Name for.”

The event is open to everyone, just pay £10 either on the day or via justgiving.com/fundraising/alison-woolcock2