Phil Jackson, goalkeeping coach at Stalybridge Celtic, has embarked on a 200-mile walking challenge around the boundary of Greater Manchester to raise funds for Cancer Research UK in memory of his late wife, Jen, who died from ovarian cancer in June 2025. The trek, known as "Ova The Hills," began on June 11 and is scheduled to conclude on June 25 in Romiley, Stockport, marking the first anniversary of Jen’s passing.

Jackson, 66, and a group of friends averaging 67 years old are tackling the Greater Manchester Ringway, a circular walking trail tracing the county’s perimeter. The fundraiser’s name is a play on both the participants’ age and the disease impacting the ovaries. Among the walkers are several cancer survivors, adding a personal dimension to the event.

Phil Jackson, a former footballer who played for clubs including Cheadle Town, Altrincham, Ashton United, Rhyl, Mossley, Irlam, and Abbey Hey, has received significant support from the football community. Curzon Ashton FC lent their mini-bus for logistical support, with director Syd White joining much of the walk on foot. Stalybridge Celtic’s owners also contributed a substantial donation toward the fundraiser. The initial target of £10,000 was surpassed before the walkers set off, prompting an increased goal of £15,000.

The idea for the challenge originated during a visit to Jackson’s stepdaughter in Perth, Australia, where he found inspiration while walking on a secluded beach. Upon returning to the UK, a friend introduced him to the Greater Manchester Ringway, which offered a structured yet manageable way to undertake the walk.

Jackson, who has also held leadership roles in cricket as a former player and chairman of Denton West Cricket Club, has been planning the event since January, with logistical coordination provided by his cricketing friend Simon Lowndes.

In reflecting on Jen’s illness, Jackson described the diagnosis as a shock, emphasizing that it developed gradually and involved several stages before confirming what he calls the “worst-case scenario.” Despite her diagnosis, he said Jen remained courageous and did not let cancer define her.

A key objective of the walk is to increase awareness about the early symptoms of ovarian cancer, which include persistent stomach pain or swelling, bloating, loss of appetite, feeling full quickly, and increased urination. Jackson emphasized the importance of education to aid early detection and improve outcomes.

Jackson described the challenge as both a tribute to Jen’s memory and a way to transform personal grief into positive action. “With Jen’s memory guiding us, every step carries meaning,” he said, highlighting the dual purpose of raising funds for research while supporting those affected by the disease.