'Our 2,500 mile trek for our terrific grandchild'

The grandparents of a young girl who began cancer treatment at two years-old have said they want to "be more Mabel" as they complete a trans-European fundraising trek.

Robert, 80, and Ana Maria, 77, from Weybridge in Surrey, aim to walk 2,500 miles (4,023km) from Rome to Gibraltar after their granddaughter, Mabel, was diagnosed with leukaemia in March, 2023.

The couple, who will be celebrating their 52nd wedding anniversary while away, will fly to Rome on Monday to prepare for their walk which begins on Wednesday.

Robert said: "Mabel is a terrific girl, I can't begin to say how much we admire her."

He said "Be More Mabel" would be their "mantra" throughout the walk.

Ana Maria added: "Normally, when we arrive at the end of these walks we have friends and people waiting for us.

"I'm most looking forward to getting to the end."

Mabel, now five, completed her cancer treatment last year having been diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) three years ago.

The couple said it would be more than double the longest walk they had completed so far.

They plan to complete it over six months in two parts, due to visa restrictions in the Schengen area, meaning they must fly back to the UK mid-trek.

The "four million steps for Mabel" trek will raise money for Momentum Children's Charity, based in East Molesey, which supported the family while Mabel was receiving treatment.

Sarah Woods, chief executive of the charity, said: "What Robert and Ana Maria are doing for their granddaughter, Mabel, is extraordinary.

"Their challenge not only raises vital funds, but also shines a light on the resilience of children like Mabel, who inspire us all every single day."

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