Jane's Appeal Hits £7.6m

The charity set up in memory of the late Jane Tomlinson has now raised £7.6 million pounds. That's quadruple the amount Jane herself raised through her endurance events before her death from cancer in 2007. The money that's been donated has helped scores of Yorkshire charities including children and cancer support organisations. Jane was 36 when she was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer in August 2000, she spent the next seven years carrying out astonishing fundraising events which really captured the public's imagination. Her self proclaimed mission statement was, "Death doesn't arrive with the prognosis."

Jane’s eldest daughter Suzanne said: "I think it’s just amazing that we’ve reached this figure in such a short space of time. It’s a huge amount that it is possible to do so much with. We can help so many people who need support, whether that’s dealing with an illness, a family member who is not well, or someone going through a bereavement.

"I think I’m most astonished at everyone’s support. It’s not been us that has raised this money – it’s been all the people who have participated in the events, given donations, everyone who works for the charity, everyone who volunteers; it’s those people who have done it.

"The goodwill and the kindness of people will never fail to amaze me. I don’t think any of the family thought we would be here, having raised over £7m."

Of continuing her mother’s legacy, she said: "It was never really in question. To see Mum go through all of that, and still help others; not just through raising money but also raising awareness … For mum it was about making sure people realised that even if they are ill, or have been diagnosed with an illness, that you can still do the unimaginable. I think that has helped people, just as much as raising money.

"Being able to carry on her work and being a part of that … you get such a lot back. Seeing people cross the finish line at the events, hearing their stories, it’s just so touching.

"I think Mum would have been amazed and so pleased that all her hard work and determination has made such an impact in so many different ways. I think she would just have had such a big grin on her face if she knew – I think she would find it hard to believe.

"Mum gave so much to others, sometimes at the detriment of herself. It’s humbling that I’m a small part of that and helping to carry it on. I suppose I feel privileged to be my mother’s daughter and that I’m helping to continue her legacy.

"We owe such a big thank you to everyone who has helped over the years – we are just so appreciative of everything everyone has done. It’s been really hard at times, but it’s because of those people that we have carried on.

"Here’s to £10m … watch this space!"