A Hillingdon woman will swim in memory of her 'courageous' cousin, for the hospice that nursed her during her cancer battle.

Claire Simms will be taking on the first ever swim-a-thon in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice on Sunday April 17 at St Helen’s School , Northwood , in memory of her cousin Carol Beakhouse who sadly lost her battle with cancer in January.

She is hoping to raise £150 in sponsorship by swimming 200 lengths, and says that her “cousin’s strength and determination will help pull her along.”

Ms Simms said: “My cousin was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer at the age of 50 and was told she had five years to live.

“True to her spirit, courage and strength, she passed away in Michael Sobell Hospice in January after a 17-year battle with cancer.”

There is still a chance for members of the public to join Claire at this free to enter swim-a-thon.

Individuals and teams of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in and take to the water from 9.30am onwards.

Sam Heggie, Michael Sobell Hospice PR and Marketing Manager, said: “On behalf of Michael Sobell Hospice, I’d like to say a very big thank you to St Helen’s School for hosting our event.

“It’s a great venue, with a fantastic pool and there is room on the day for spectators, should friends and family want to cheer on all our swimmers.

“It promises to be splashing good fun so why not get a team together and sign up to take part today.”

Michael Sobell Hospice was recently the victim of theft, when a collection tin containing a 'substantial' amount of money was swiped from their Ruislip charity shop branch.

Different ways to help out or get involved

Organisers are encouraging entrants to raise £50 in sponsorship, by asking friends and family to make a donation towards their fundraising efforts.

All money raised will go towards the vital work of Michael Sobell Hospice, in providing specialist palliative care to local patients facing life-limiting illness.

You can register online for the event on the hospice's events page , by calling 0203 826 2367 for an entry form, or simply pop along to St Helen’s School reception to pick up a registration form.

If you would prefer not want to swim but can spare a few hours to lend a helping hand as a volunteer on the day, the Michael Sobell Hospice fundraising team is looking for people to help out during the event from 9.00am - 12.30pm.

If you can spare a few hours, please contact Ophelia Chambers-Henry on 0203 826 2362.