A WOMAN who lost her sister to breast cancer will take part in the Blenheim Palace Pink Ribbon Walk in her memory.

Alison Beauchamp, of Marston, will walk 10 miles at the Breast Cancer Care event in May to help keep the charity’s vital services free of charge.

Her sister and 'best friend' Kate Chivers, died of breast cancer 11 years ago and Ms Beauchamp is determined to keep her memory alive.

The 40-year-old office manager said: “We were really close. There was a 14 year age gap between us but she was my best friend and it was really hard losing her.

“She was such a bubbly, outgoing person. She was very family oriented, married for 25 years to Nigel, and she was a special daughter, sister and aunty who loved her children, Jason and Amy, very much.

“I’m really looking forward to the Pink Ribbon Walk and I hope she would be proud of me.”

It will be Ms Beauchamp’s second time taking on the walk.

She said support from others affected by cancer will help spur her on.

Mrs Chivers, was first diagnosed with cancer when she was 37 after finding a lump in her breast.

She had treatment but the cancer returned and she passed away at the age of 43.

Ms Beauchamp said: “Kate was always positive during her treatment and she never complained.

“By taking part in the walk, I feel like I’m keeping her memory alive.

"You never forget. I also want to help support other people affected by this disease.”

Breast Cancer Care is inviting women and men to walk a 10 or 20 mile tailor-made route at Blenheim Palace on Saturday, May 12.

Everyone will be cheered across the finish line and will receive a complimentary hot meal, massage and medal after completing the route.

More than 500 people in Oxfordshire will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year and funds raised will help the charity provide a range of services, including specialist nurses, face-to-face services and online support network.

See breastcancercare.org.uk/ribbonwalk.