A walker has completed an epic trek of almost 3,000 miles across Great Britain, raising thousands of pounds for Eden Valley Hospice in memory of his friend.
Adam Brown’s Great British Gut Buster Challenge saw him set off from John o’Groats four months ago, walk along the northern Scottish coast, south into England, along the Welsh and south western coasts to finish in London. His mammoth journey was more than 2,950 miles.
His challenge was officially complete when he made it to Buckingham Palace on Wednesday afternoon to be greeted by friends.
Adam, 46, is originally from Yorkshire and now lives in New Zealand, took on the huge physical challenge to raise vital funds for the Carlisle-based hospice, after they cared for his friend Anna Pike in 2018.
Anna died aged 39 following a battle with an extremely rare form of cancer and received expert and compassionate care from the hospice during the final months of her life.
Anna was born in Dumfries and brought up there and also in Langholm and Canonbie in southern Scotland. She studied for an undergraduate degree in Leeds and did her PGCE teacher training at University of Cumbria in Carlisle, before continuing in the city, teaching at Petteril Bank Primary School until she fell ill.
Adam said: “I am really proud of myself for completing this challenge. It’s been the journey of a lifetime and I can honestly say, I’ve loved every single day.
“I’ve met lots of wonderful people that have shown great kindness and generosity in both assisting me and donating to the hospice. Hopefully the donations will continue to roll in for a while yet.”
Eleanor Viney, fundraising manager for the hospice, said: “Adam’s journey has been truly incredible and the funds he’s raised so far will help the hospice continue to care for local families at a time when they need us most. He should be very proud of what he has done.”
Almost £9,000, plus gift aid, has been raised for the charity thanks to Adam’s efforts. Donations can still be made at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Adam-Brown113.
