Coast walker Chris Howard to arrive in Devon as part of his 11,000 mile trek for Children in Need
A man who is walking 11,000 miles around the UK coast to raise money for Children in Need is due to arrive in Exmouth this week. Chris Howard, 37, from Cambridge, has already covered over 1150 miles walking continuously around the coasts of East Anglia, the south east and East Dorset. Chris is currently in the Lyme Regis area and will be walking to Exmouth over the next few days via Seaton, Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton. Chris will continue clockwise around the UK aiming to arrive back in East Anglia in July 2021.
After setting off from Heacham South Beach in Norfolk on July 29, the dad of three and former Atlantic rower aims to complete his year long walk of the coastline of mainland Britain to help the BBC Children in Need appeal.
Lockdown has given Chris a lot of time to think about how lucky his children are but also to think of those less fortunate and in more difficult circumstances. Feeling it was time to turn the negative impact of coronavirus into something positive to give people and young people hope, Chris has given himself one year to complete the mammoth challenge. Leaving behind his wife and three daughters he is documenting his journey on social media @christhecoastwalker and hosting virtual talks with schools and community groups along the way. Chris is braving the elements and carrying everything required to survive with him, indulging a lightweight cook system and bivvy bag to sleep in. So far he’s peaked the interest of several corporate sponsors who’ve donated kit and some supplies. The reaction on social media have all been positive and encouraging.
Owner of the building company Cambridge Renovations Chris knows that leaving his own family behind will be a real mental battle but hopes his journey will inspire children and adults alike to get outdoors and be respectful of their environment and essentially love where they live. Chris has previously devised and participated in challenges such as rowing the Atlantic, long distance cycle rides and marathons. He’s always pushed himself hard to achieve things for the benefit of others. This time is different in that he’ll be entirely alone for long periods surviving on his witts, foraging and sleeping in the open and walking up to 30 miles a day for a whole year.
Speaking of his journey, Chris said: “I've always wanted to do push myself and inspire others but no matter what I do I want it to be for a worthy cause, I can’t think of a better one than BBC children in need right now, they’re continued work is incredibly worthwhile. I would like to thank everyone that has supported me so far. I am looking forward to meeting old and new friends along the way and hope that it raises lots of money for BBC Children in Need.”
Donations are being accepted via: Chris website http://www.thecoastwalker.com which links to his Justgiving page
BBC Children in Need works throughout the year to ensure that every child in the UK has a safe, happy and secure childhood, and the chance to reach their full potential. It relies on the energy and commitment of thousands of fundraisers and supporters across the UK, who donate their time and money to put on events supporting the Appeal.
Chris can be contacted directly at:
Chris Howard
07897815664
www.thecoastwalker.com
Twitter/Facebook/Instagram: @christhecoastwalker
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