Yachtswoman Emma Pontin joins Southampton's Celebrity Sunwalk (From Daily Echo)

Yachtswoman Emma Pontin joins Southampton's Celebrity Sunwalk

8:56am Tuesday 20th April 2010 in

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INSPIRATIONAL Hampshire yachtswoman Emma Pontin has called on the Southampton public to get behind this weekend’s Celebrity SunWalk in a bid to raise cash for a cause close to her heart.

Having been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 Emma knows just how crushing receiving the devastating diagnosis is – but despite the lows she found the strength to beat the illness.

Having seen breast cancer claim the life of her aunt and grandmother, Emma said it was vital that everything was done to raise money to beat the disease.

“Events like these are so crucial because they raise money for the vital research that obviously must be working. Twenty years ago I lost my aunt and grandmother, but I am still here so whatever they are doing it is working. The treatment is getting better so it is important that continues.”

Since her recovery she has ploughed her efforts into fundraising for research into breast cancer. So becoming involved in this Saturday’s Celebrity SunWalk organised by the Walk the Walk charity, was a chance she jumped at.

Emma, 39, said the Celebrity SunWalk, sponsored by Celebrity Cruises and backed by the Daily Echo, was also a great event for the city. ”It is a great thing for Southampton to be part of and even if people aren’t registered it will be a great event to come along and support. It sounds like it will be great fun.”

Her duties do not just extend to helping start the race. Once she has completed the walk she will have to swap her trainers for her evening gown as she takes on her role as Godmother of the Celebrity Eclipse, the newest ship from Celebrity Cruises – due to arrive in Southampton this morning – which is being named later in the day.

The naming celebrations for the ship are planned to go ahead on Saturday unchanged, and Celebrity Eclipse will be named by Hampshire yachtswoman and breast cancer survivor Emma Pontin on April 24.

Mayflower Park, where the race starts and finish will also provide the backdrop for the naming ceremony and is the focal point for a programme of entertainment and fun for all the family.

Even if you aren’t registered, there is still a way to take part as the event needs volunteers to help it run smoothly. To find out more log on to walkthewalk.org.