A security guard is throwing himself in the deep end – by swimming the Channel in memory of a tragic pal.

Steve Jones was devastated when Jenna Wharton, 25, lost a 14-month battle with cervical cancer.

Jenna went to her GP after developing bleeding in November 2009.

She was stunned when tests revealed she had cancer – and it was too advanced and aggressive to be treated.

Jenna, from Salford, died last January. Now, a year on, Steve, 32, from Ellenbrook, Worsley, has decided to take on the marathon swim in tribute to her strength and bravery.

He is aiming to raise £6,000 for St Ann’s Hospice where Jenna, a former pupil of Walkden High School, was treated before her death.

He is swimming 22 miles a week in training for his attempt in August. Steve said: “Jenna was a true fighter, friend and an inspiration to us all.

“Her strength and courage was amazing and St Ann’s made her life, as much as was possible, a lot better. It’s a fantastic charity and I’d love to raise as much as I can to help other patients.”

Jenna’s mum Diane, a district nurse, explained how her family would always be grateful to the staff at St Ann’s for their support during her illness.

She said: “Jenna had always been very healthy – she didn’t think there was anything seriously wrong when she went to the GP. She just put it down to something hormonal. it was a massive shock when she was diagnosed.

“Jenna’s symptoms became complex and difficult to manage at home and she was very grateful for the support received from the team at St Ann’s Hospice.”

Steve, who works for a security company said:“My biggest concern is if it can’t take place because of bad weather but I’m being positive. I’m not too fond of jellyfish to be honest which is why I’m training in Albert Dock in Liverpool to get used to them.”

He has already completed 11 miles on Lake Windermere during his training and plans to do double that distance there before attempting the Channel crossing.

He is looking for sponsorship and has already received support from businesses and friends. a non-uniform day at Haslam Park Primary School in Deane, Bolton, raised over £170. To sponsor Steve go to swimforjenna.co.uk  or call him on 07403 296173.

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