A LOVING daughter is stepping out to fight cancer after losing her mum to the disease.

Kelly Harlin, 18, will be joining her brother and sister, twins Kylie and Kenny, both 16, on Darent Valley Hospital's Stride for Life sponsored walk.

Proceeds from the July 3 event will go towards the hospital's Cancer Fighting Fund and organisers hope to top the £19,000 raised during last year's event.

After a long fight against lung and breast cancer 47-year-old Heather Harlin died from a heart attack during treatment.

Kelly, who works as a volunteer at the hospital, said: "We miss mum so much but this is a way of doing something positive in her memory as well as helping others with cancer.

"I'll always remember how, although she was ill, mum would give me a cuddle if I was upset. She was a great mum and my best friend."

Mrs Harlin had undergone treatment for breast and lung cancer in 2003 but the lung cancer returned over Christmas that year.

Kelly, of Wolsley Close, Crayford, said: "Mum had treatment at the hospital during January and February but died in March last year. The staff at the hospital really made a difference, they were brilliant."

The Stride for Life charity day will also see birds of prey demonstrations, a balloon release, foam party and belly dancing as well as the Marine Band.

Kelly is urging people to get involved saying: "Unless you have gone through what mum did you can't understand how important the hospital's help is."

Fundraising manager Tracey Cummins said: "This year our Cancer Fighting Fund hopes to raise enough to purchase a wonderful piece of technology to help with the early detection of small bowel tumours.

"If you wish to enter the walk and need a registration form call 01322 428392."