The family of a Weymouth woman who died from cancer will walk the entirety of Chesil Beach to raise money for a Dorset-based cancer charity.

Sally Quickfall died in September 2018 after battling cancer for more than ten years. Her husband Ken and sons James and Simon now plan to walk 18 miles along Chesil Beach on September 1 to raise money for the Fortuneswell Cancer Trust.

Ken, James and Simon will start their walk from West Bay and will finish in Fortuneswell, Portland, which is apt given their chosen charity and Sally’s time spent in the Fortuneswell Unit at Dorset County Hospital.

“They continue to do absolutely fantastic work with people fighting cancer,” said Simon, “they are some of the most genuine people I have ever met in my life but they need our help.

“It’s not going to be easy. Despite all the research James and I have done and all the advice given to us by the Army, Coastguard and Fleet Wardens about the dangers and risks involved, we’re doing it.

“Anyone who’s stepped foot on the pebbles will know that it’s one step forward, two back.”

Sally lived in Wyke for 35 years and Simon said she was an inspiration to all that knew her.

He said: “In the eve of her life she supported others who were diagnosed with cancer and became a symbol of strength and courage to both women and men who were fighting. She was loved by all the amazing staff at Dorchester Hospital, especially those miracle workers in the Fortuneswell Unit.

“She brought a little sparkle into the lives of those she met and no one will ever forget her.”
Simon, James and Ken have been granted special permission under licence to walk the stretch from Abbotsbury to Ferrybridge following strict rules and regulations. 

“The nature conservation interests of the reserve are paramount,” said Simon, “so we are to remain on the seaward side of the bank throughout the duration of the walk for the protection of its flora and fauna.”

The men have set themselves a target of £2,000 and have currently managed to raise more than £350.

To donate to their cause, visit the donation page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sally-quickfall