Olympic champion Denise Lewis is limbering up for a fresh athletic challenge - but this time she will be teaming up with her mum!

The heptathlete, who scooped gold at the Sydney Olympics in 2000, is preparing to pull on her trainers for next month's Ribbon Walk.

Hundreds of people are planning to join her on the 20-mile route around Blenheim Palace to raise awareness of breast cancer.

The track-and-field star is backing the walk following the death of her grandmother - Celina Hutchinson - from the illness almost two years ago. Ms Lewis said: "She was 70, but such a strong, healthy woman, who loved to live life to the full.

"It was just 16 months from the time she was diagnosed with breast cancer to death, and that was such a shock."

Ms Lewis will be taking part in the trek alongside her mum, Joan Lewis, who she said was looking forward to the day.

She said: "It's not something my mum has done before, but she is really eager, especially after the death of her mother.

"It's quite a challenge, but will be a great achievement for anyone taking part. Remember it will be a fun day too!"

Ms Lewis is an ambassador for Breast Cancer Care, which is organising the Ribbon Walk. The charity offers support to people affected by the illness.

Ms Lewis said: "So many people are affected by this illness, not just the victims themselves, but friends, families and colleagues.

"The day is about raising awareness of the illness and showing people there is support available."

There are two routes to choose from on the day - 10 miles or 20 miles - around the palace grounds in Woodstock. It takes place on Saturday, June 9. To find out more, call 0870 145 0101 or log on at www.ribbonwalk.org.uk