THE life of a community stalwart, fundraiser and founder of a cancer support group will be commemorated through one of the things she loved doing most.

Jo O’Farrell MBE, founder of The Living Tree, was a very keen walker and enjoyed exploring the countryside around her home, so friends want to organise a walk dedicated to her.

Jo’s Jurassic Jaunt follows two other fundraising ‘strollathons’ in aid of The Living Tree, organised by Roz Copson and Rita Bechervaise.

The first took place in April 2017 and consisted of a two-day walk from Portland to West Bay. The second was held in April last year with the group walking 15-miles around Bridport over two days.

This year’s walking challenge is from Lyme Regis to West Bay, an area Jo would have known and loved very much.

Jo helped set up The Living Tree in October 2012 after she was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins lymphoma in September 2009.

This led to setting up Stepping Out, an exercise and education programme held at Bridport Leisure Centre for people living with or beyond cancer.

Jo also set up the annual MusicAthon, a day of music and singing that raises money for various local charities. This year it will take place on Saturday, June 8 at Bridport United Church from 9am to 5pm.

She was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List in 2018, but sadly died in July.

The day-long walk will be on Saturday, April 27, starting at 8am from the Charmouth Road car park in Lyme Regis – on the left as you go into the town – along the coast path before finishing in West Bay around 4pm, with refreshments being served at the George Hotel.

It is hoped that some of Jo’s poetry will be read at a number of places along the way.

For more information and to book onto the walk call Roz on 01308 422650 or Rita on 01308 482366 or email bechervaisep@aol.com.