»When Kerry Hughes’ grandfather was terminally ill, he received care during his final days from Saint Francis Hospice.

His death literally kicked her into action and she decided to turn her life around through a strict fitness regime.

Now, to honour the Dagenham grandfather’s memory and raise funds for the hospice, the 28-year-old is preparing to compete in a mixed martial arts event this Saturday.

‘Massively overweight’

She said: “Two years ago, I was massively overweight and I had one of the most unhealthy lifestyles anyone could imagine.

“It seemed to me a fitting way to mark this milestone was to give something back to a charity which helps others through some of the most difficult times of their lives on a daily basis.”

The British Challenge Mixed Martial Arts show is being held at Colchester United football stadium and will include the semi-pro ladies British title contest which Kerry will compete in.

She has been on a strict training regime and diet in preparation for the big fight night.

Kerry continued: “I really hope people will be motivated by my efforts to donate and also realise it’s never too late to change your lifestyle and chase your dreams.”

Linda Borg, fundraising co-ordinator at Saint Francis Hospice, said: “We have a huge number of people doing all sorts of amazing things to raise money for the hospice.

“But I think this is the first time we have had a female contestant in a martial arts event putting her body on the line for us.”

n To sponsor Kerry visit www.justgiving.com/KerryHughes21.