Welsh Olympian, Iwan Thomas MBE, has teamed up with Macmillan Cancer Support to encourage people to sign up to a summer fundraising challenge, including the Mighty Hikes, Wye Valley.

The 26-mile fundraising hike from Monmouth to Chepstow takes place on Saturday 4 August and will raise vital funds for Macmillan Cancer Support to help people with cancer to live life as fully as they can.

Thomas, who has been a member of #TeamMacmillan since 2008, joined actress Lisa Riley and Liberty X star Michelle Heaton for a workout, when he put the stars through their paces in a bid to inspire fundraisers to team-up and find a challenge.

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The three famous faces have come together to share their personal stories of how cancer has affected their lives, and have been pictured getting a sweat on in the hope that others will follow in their footsteps and find their own challenge.

Macmillan’s running ambassador Iwan Thomas is urging everyone to team up and take on a challenge, saying:

“If you’re unsure about asking a friend to do a challenge with you my advice is: just ask, you’ll be surprised by the response, sometimes people need a nudge.

“I’ve run the London Marathon as part of Team Macmillan eight times now and there really is nothing that compares to the feeling of taking on a challenge and wearing the iconic green top. I’d encourage everybody to join Team Macmillan and experience that for themselves.

“You don’t have to tackle a marathon – grab a friend and walk, run, cycle or swim to raise money and enjoy yourselves at the same time.”

Participants are encouraged to ask loved ones for sponsorship and money raised will help Macmillan provide support to help everyone with cancer live their life as fully as they can.

Speaking after the training session, Liberty X star Michelle Heaton, said:

“My family and I have been touched with cancer through three generations and because of this I’ve had to take preventative measures.

“I don’t want this to happen to anybody and that’s why I want to raise awareness of Macmillan, so men and women who have to face life changing decisions know support is available to them when they need it.

“I joined Team Macmillan and completed my first ever triathlon a few years ago. The cheering crowds and the sense of satisfaction is something I’ll never forget.”

Actress Lisa Riley added:

“My family has suffered not once but five times due to cancer and Macmillan Cancer Support has been there from the start. I will be forever grateful for all their hard work and dedication.”

It’s easy to join #TeamMacmillan and raise money for people living with cancer by signing up at www.macmillan.org.uk/challenge.

Last year the charity raised over £18 million for people affected by cancer through challenge events in the UK and abroad.