A woman has paid tribute to her “utterly kind and generous” father after his death and championing his “adventurous streak”.

Becky Whitbourn shared how her father Mark had a “contagious” smile and loved “tinkering away in his garage” prior to his death in November 2022.

Mark died after suffering from cancer and now Becky has shared how support from a hospice charity helped get her through some “unbearable” nights.

Becky, from Worthing, said: “My dad was utterly kind and generous, he would help anyone in need.

“With a smile that was contagious, he could make anyone feel instantly at ease. Dad was a builder, and he was always tinkering away in his garage building or fixing things.

“Dad was never more at home than when he was up a ladder, precariously balancing without a worry in the world. Even when he was sick, he kept asking if he could go up a ladder.

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“My dad loved his garden and wildlife gravitated towards him. He once rescued a disgruntled pigeon in our garden, feeding it peanuts. It would sit on Dad’s shoulder as he pottered round the garden, and it still comes to our kitchen window to be fed.”

During Mark’s treatment and before his death, Becky was supported by St Barnabas House, a hospice charity based in Arundel.

The charity helped to treat Mark in his home and also provided bereavement support to Becky following his death.

Now, Becky is set to trek 22 miles up and over Mount Snowden in Wales in memory of her dad and in support of the charity.

The Argus: Becky WhitbournBecky Whitbourn (Image: St Barnabas House)

The Man v Mountain event will see Becky start at Caernarfon Castle before summiting Mount Snowden, trekking down the other side and finishing with an obstacle course.

She added: “If my dad could see me now, he'd think I am crazy. I have always had an adventurous streak and he always cheered me on. I can just hear him now, saying ‘Go get ’em, girl!’”

Becky is documenting her efforts on her JustGiving page, where people can also donate.