A WOMAN with incurable cancer is taking on an exercise challenge to raise funds for charities combating the disease.

Christine Ashworth, 27, of Maidenhead, is taking on the ‘Step Up For 30’ challenge in June, in aid of Bowel Cancer UK and Beating Bowel Cancer.

The challenge encourages people to do 30 minutes of physical activity every day for 30 days in June. Research has shown that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of bowel cancer by as much as 12 per cent.

Ms Ashworth, who has stage 4 bowel cancer, is hoping her activities will raise more money for the cause.

Ms Ashworth said: “I was originally diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2012. It reappeared in my lungs in 2016 and I’ve now got stage 4 bowel cancer which I’ve been told is incurable. I’ve had a couple of other issues like asthma and pulmonary embolism, which have affected my breathing and how much exercise I can do.

“For Step up for 30 I’m walking, swimming and making the most of my gym membership. I am looking forward to seeing what my body can still do, despite the cancer, and reminding people how important exercise is for our health. It is great to be able to raise money for such a worthy cause at the same time.”

Bowel cancer is the second most deadly cancer in the UK, killing 16,000 people each year. However, survival rates are very high if the disease is diagnosed early.

You can support Ms Ashworth by donating to: justgiving.com/fundraising/stepupchristine