"Today (Sunday), I would have been Walking the Wight in memory of my mum, Rita, who passed away in January, aged 89.

"Mum was a strong lady, so as a salute to girl power, I would have been joined by my two daughters, my sister, Annette, who lives on the Island, and sister, Wendy, and niece, who had planned to be here from Canada.

"My sisters and I can never thank the staff enough at Mountbatten who looked after mum in her last days.

"They went above and beyond with such exceptional care. Throughout the lockdown period we have all collectively walked  and run a number of marathons, albeit not on the same day or indeed on the same continent.

"But although apart, we all love and remember mum and take comfort in the fact we were able to say goodbye and give her a proper send off.

"Many families in this crisis will be unable to do that and our hearts go out to them. So although sadly we were not able to take part in this brilliant event this year, we hope to be there next year."