A terminally-ill woman is today preparing to take on a swimming challenge in memory of her granddaughter, who died of a debilitating illness.

At 5.30pm, Valerie Costello, 64, of Kings Parade, Holland-on-Sea, will be jumping into the pool at Valley Farm, Clacton, to do a sponsored swim.

"I have been round asking for sponsors and I have about £500. It may be more," she said.

Mrs Costello, who has cancer, is raising funds to buy a special vest for people with cystic fibrosis, which helps them with their physiotherapy.

Her 13-year-old granddaughter Sammy Jo Raymond, from Holland-on-Sea, had cystic fibrosis. She died in May 2003.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Mrs Costello can contact her on 01255 814285.

Published Friday, September 3, 2004

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