A WOMAN has completed a gruelling 100km walk without sleep, raising over £6,000 for a cancer charity.
Katherine Deacle set herself the challenge to test her endurance and raise money for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity.
Known as 'Deeks', the 40-year-old started her journey at Leigh Rugby Union Club, where she has been a respected player since she was 13 years old.
The route took her from Leigh into St Helens, reaching Clatterbridge Hospital at night-time, heading towards Aintree Racecourse, and then back to Leigh.
More than 26 hours later, at around 6pm on the Saturday, she completed the challenge, having walked the full 100km without stopping for sleep.
A mountain lover and qualified mountain leader, Katherine embarked on the walk not just for personal achievement, but to contribute to a cause dear to her heart.
Katherine's friend and coach, Carla Winstanley, supported her throughout the challenge.
Carla followed the route by car, carrying food, water, and fresh clothes for Katherine.
She also came up with creative ways to keep spirits high, dressing in different fancy-dress outfits linked to each location at every planned stop.
One of the highlights was at Aintree Racecourse, where Carla appeared wearing a horse's head, adding a touch of humour to the taxing journey.
Katherine’s fundraising efforts were not limited to just walking.
With help from friends, she set up a fundraising page, produced posters, and shared QR codes to encourage donations.
As word of the challenge spread, more people offered their support, with many joining her for sections of the route.
The biggest reward, however, has been the amount raised for charity.
As of now, Katherine has already collected more than £6,000 for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, with donations still pouring in.
A raffle also took place at Leigh Rugby Union Club to further boost the fundraising total.
Deeks' efforts have turned a personal challenge into a remarkable fundraising success.
Her determination and spirit have inspired everyone who followed her journey.
The Clatterbridge even shared a video featuring Katherine's walk and her crossing the finish line to a rapturous reception.
Those who joined Deeks for parts of the walk included wife Carly Deacle, Helen Pennington, Alan Wain, Diane Westwell, Ian Westwell, Katie Burrows, Jennifer Gerrard, Jan Gerrard. Helen Murtagh, Michelle Tabern, Nicola Martindale, Rob Murray, Jason Chillingworth, Bex Faragher, Rachael Downs, Charlotte Hardman took over, Jennifer Nugent, Melanie Dempsey and Alison Gelding.
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