A SHILDON woman is planning to get as far away from home as possible – but it's all in a good cause.

Michelle Scott has signed up for Butterwick Hospice's Great Escape, which challenges pairs of fundraisers to travel as far as they can on just £5.

She has special reason for taking part as her mum, Ann, has been a regular at the Bishop Auckland hospice's day centre for the past 12 years.

Michelle, who will be joined for the Great Escape by her friend Jen Bainbridge, explained that her mum has a progressive type of Multiple Sclerosis which requires 24-hour care.

“For the last 12 years, the Butterwick Hospice has cared for and supported my mum,” she said.

“Not only is the hospice a day out for my mum but it also allows my dad to have a break once a week. “The staff and volunteers are amazing and I couldn’t think of a better charity to raise money for.”

The Great Escape will start from the hospice at 9am on Saturday, June 8.

Organiser Julie Nisbet said the winners would those who had travelled the furthest within 24 hours with just £5 between them.

“We last did a Great Escape in 2004 and previous escapees have made it as far as Marmaris, in Turkey, and Belgium.

“The event is fun and certainly a challenge – teams must use their charm to get as far away as possible.”

The Great Escape is free to enter, but each pair is asked to raise £250 between them for the hospice.

Entries are now being accepted and Escape Packs are available from Ms Nisbet on 01388-603003 or by email at julienisbet@butterwick.org.uk

Meanwhile, Michelle and Jen are aiming to raise at least £300 for the hospice and if anyone would like to support them, they can do so online at justgiving.com/Michelle-Scott10