I’m writing to encourage your readers to become involved with Dimbleby Cancer Care’s Walk50 summer fundraiser by joining walkers from seven to76 supporting those living with cancer, their families and carers.

It is fun as well as invaluable - a 12km, 25km or 50km walk during the night on Friday, June 7, through our great capital city.

Starting on the banks of the River Thames at Westminster Bridge and finishing at Guy’s Cancer Centre, next to the iconic Shard, the route will take us past many of our most famous landmarks including Lambeth Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Primose Hill, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and more! The event is supported by a team of wonderful volunteers serving refreshment at various points along the way.

Dimbleby Cancer Care (DCC) was set up in 1966 in memory of my father, the broadcaster Richard Dimbleby. The charity is based at Guy’s Cancer Centre in London, where qualified NHS staff provide practical and psychological support to cancer patients , their families and carers. Our centre provides information and support at both Guy’s Cancer Centre and Queen Mary’s Hospital, Sidcup. DCC also operates a nationwide online directory - www.cancercaremap.org - which helps people across the UK locate care and support services near to where they live.. Since 2004, DCC has also funded over £2.7m in grants to researchers seeking to improve the delivery of cancer care .

This will be my 5th Walk. It is not unduly testing and to hear the enthusiasm from fellow walkers for the work done by DCC is an inspiration if one begins to flag. . There are many others who have come from all over the country to take part – it truly is a special event to be part of.

DCC really makes a difference. Your support can make sure that we achieve even more in the future..

You can visit www.dimblebycancercare.org/events to find out more and sign up. And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter #Walk50

Jonathan Dimbleby, Jonathan Dimbleby, chair, Dimbleby Cancer Care