A STAINCROSS woman who documents her walks in the local area will take part in a two-million step challenge this summer to raise awareness for Diabetes UK.

Helen Brown, 54, lost her brother, David, also 54, to a diabetes related illness in December 2019 and has since been the face of Diabetes UK, with this year’s challenge being her fourth year running.

Helen told the Chronicle she started taking part in these challenges as a coping mechanism and distraction from her grief, after losing her dad to the same illness.

“On average I’ll be completing 11.5 miles each day for 90 days from July 1 to September 30,” said Helen.

“I’ve completed the challenge for the last three years - it’s a way of coping and allows me to keep a healthy mind.”

Helen began taking photos of her walks - originally to show her mum, who Helen said is her ‘biggest supporter’ - but continued when she realised she enjoyed taking photos and wanted to document her adventures, taking photos of birds, nature and her surroundings.

“I’ve always been into photography, and one day while I was out walking, I decided to start taking the odd photo - mainly to show my family, especially my mum, she’s always interested in what I’m doing and where I’ve been.

“Every time I go for a walk now I’ll take a series of pictures - photography is another way of keeping me busy.

“The finish line is always at my mum’s - she is my biggest supporter and loves to see and hear about my progress and walks.”