The 53-year-old is taking part in Walk the Walk, a charity event in which participants complete three midnight marathons in London, Edinburgh and Iceland.

The priority is to raise awareness, help fund ongoing research, and provide grants for breast cancer causes throughout the UK.

However, these are marathons with a twist. Competitors, both male and female, walk in brightly coloured bras.

Shelly, who lives in Prestwich, explained: "We walk in decorated bras, men as well, as there is a real sense of achievement and camaraderie."

The 26.2-mile events take place in incredibly cold conditions and this is something Shelly has prepared herself for.

She added: "I began my training 12 weeks ago so I could train through the winter.

"I trained in gale-force winds, blizzards and snow storms.

"This is not the first time I have done a midnight walk and that helps.

"I have done the London legs for the last two years, but never all three."

Shelly has already raised £2,300 for breast cancer charities and hopes she will break the £3,000 barrier.

The first marathon took place earlier this month in London.

There is a four-week break before the Edinburgh leg on Saturday, June 8.

The Iceland leg takes place a week later.

Shelly is unsure about whether this will be her last time donning the bra.

"I imagine I will get to the finishing line and say never again, but lets see how I feel", she said.

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