When Tina asked me to be a patron of Hammer Out, I was flattered and honoured. I’ve been a journalist for longer than I care to remember, and reported on the work of many charities, but this is one that has really touched my heart.

It was born out of the love that Tina Mitchell has for her husband Paul, who died of a brain tumour. She’s taken all that grief and anger, and used it to create something great. She draws on her own experiences to bring hope and peace - and fun - to people with brain tumours and their families. And she has love for every individual she works with.

Some cancers are ‘popular’, as my fellow patron Mr. Sandeman said – and brain tumours aren’t. So the work that Hammer Out is doing to raise the profile of this killer is vital. Fundraising is also important – to pay for research into this cancer.

A good friend of mine has a brain tumour, and I know how important the support of Hammer Out is. You can’t help but be enthused by the whole team. I am thrilled to be a part of it.

Sally Challoner