Borders woman gives back to Macmillan through Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike
A borders woman whose life has been touched by cancer is preparing for a busy weekend of fundraising, volunteering and walking for Macmillan.
This Saturday (September 5), Jacqueline Bates from Kelso will be volunteering at the Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike marathon, before tackling the half-marathon the following day.
Getting involved in the Macmillan Mighty Hikes became a tradition for Jacqueline after she lost several family members to cancer.
“Although the statistics are one in two people will get cancer, for us, it’s been a lot,” she said. “When my dad was ill, Macmillan supported him so it’s nice to give back.”
After taking part in several of the hikes herself, Jacqueline felt inspired by the volunteers who provide the vital support that spurs the walkers on during those challenging final moments.
"That final stretch from Seahouses to Bamburgh is the longest part to walk. You can see the castle and it feels like you are not getting any closer.
“But then you get to the end, and the Macmillan volunteers are there and they’re welcoming you in. You get your medal, you get your little glass of fizz and it’s just the best feeling.
“We just thought, we want to be those people. You know, we want to be the ones saying well done.”
Jacqueline volunteered at the Northumberland Mighty Hike last year, and this year has already provided support at the Lake District and Scotland events.
“Most who take part are ordinary people whose lives have been touched by cancer,” she added.
“They have pictures on their backpacks of people that they’re supporting, you know, they have little stories and sometimes you just want to give them a hug because you know why they’re doing it, because that’s why we did it.
“It’s very humbling and very inspiring.”
The Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike returns on on September 5 and 6.
The route starts at the iconic Alnwick Castle before walking along the beautiful sweeping beaches and fishing villages before finishing at the historic Bamburgh Castle.
Last year, 3,996 Northumberland hikers raised a record-breaking £1.7 million to mark the event’s 10th anniversary.
“The half’s just a really great chance to raise the money,” Jacqueline added. “But the volunteering is really special.”