From Wakefield to Whitby: Ossett trio to walk 100 miles in aid of Yorkshire Air Ambulance

Lauren Gregory, 22, Saskia Whiting, 22, and Sally-Anne Wilson, 48, are walking the 100-plus miles in memory of Lauren’s stepdad Michael Cottam who died in a motorbike collision in 2010 on his way back to West Yorkshire from Whitby.

In the wake of his death, Lauren and her mum decided to raise money for the YAA because although they didn't attend the collision, Lauren said the charity seemed 'the closest to the situation."

She said: "It was a really important charity to my step dad and at the funeral we wanted to raise money for a charity instead of flowers so we chose the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and decided to carry on raising money for them afterwards."

Since his death Lauren, her mum and friends have raised over £60,000 for the charity and many have become registered volunteers.

"Selfishly [fundraising] helped us as well," said Lauren, "It helped us get through a tough time. It came naturally and we haven't stopped since."

To mark the 10-year anniversary of his passing, Lauren’s mum has set a target of raising £20,000 in 2020.

This led Lauren to set herself a big challenge - the 100 mile walk.

They are also organising various events in West Yorkshire throughout the year.

The walking challenge begins on April 21 in Ossett and the group will walk to Wetherby.

The following day they will move on to Sutton-on-the-Forest, then Malton on the 23rd, Scarborough on the 24th and before finishing in Whitby on April 25.

Rooms in local B&Bs have been generously donated a long the route.

Lauren added: "Whitby was Mick's favourite seaside destination, and what better way to celebrate his life than by doing this."

The group are hoping to raise £1,000 and donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/WakefieldToWhitby