An 89-year-old great-grandmother is planning to undertake a 5k sponsored walk in aid of a 15-month-old child.

Ivy Gregory, who will be 90 in July, will take on the challenge on Sunday, June 5, starting at 10.30am at The Oval Bandstand in Cliftonville, Margate.

It comes after Ivy's great-granddaughter Helena Russell, 15 months, was diagnosed with type 1 spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic condition which affects the nerves that control muscle movement, the motor neurones.

Helena’s mother Charlotte first noticed signs of the condition shortly after the birth and has been trying to raise awareness of the condition and funds for equipment, such as an electronic wheelchair, since January.

Mrs Russell said: "My nan has always been an amazing inspiration to our family, she is incredibly selfless and generous with strong family values.

"Shortly after Helena was diagnosed she offered to do a sponsored five-kilometre walk in order to raise funds and awareness for Helena.

"She has recruited friends from some of her clubs to join her on the walk and show how able bodied older people are keen to help a little baby.

"She is also unbelievably active for her 90 years and she is involved in many activities and clubs including dancing, table tennis, indoor bowls and singing in a choir that performs at local care homes."

Mrs Russell said that the family lived with Ivy for a short time while she was pregnant and their house was up for sale.

After the birth Mrs Gregory went to London for hospital visits with Charlotte and Helena.

Mrs Russell added: "My nan’s walk will take place the week before the Queen’s official 90th birthday celebrations.

"She is a huge fan of the Queen and was born and married in the same years that the Queen was, she also sends a birthday card to the Queen every year.

"However, my nan is truly the queen of our family and we all hold her in great regard."

The family are encouraging anybody who wants to join the walk to meet at the bandstand just before 10.30am.

Ivy plans to finish her journey at North Foreland Lighthouse.

A JustGiving page has also been set up and can be found here.