We are raising funds in memory of a great friend – Gareth Berrow. Although his family were buying the bench, it would be an honour to help by doing something he would have loved to have taken part in, whilst also raising funds for Newport Mind - supporting local people with mental health (Reg Charity no. 1036964).

In the spirit of his birthday, that could never just be a day – it was an event and gathering, a few of us are getting together to complete a c.30-mile walk and 10-mile canoe trek. The attempt will take place over the weekend of the 9th and 10th of March – The 10th being his birthday.

DAY 1 We will set off from Chepstow Castle behind the originator of the idea – John Berrow, who will guide us off from the start point on the morning of the 9th for 8.00am, where we follow the Wye Valley/Offas Dyke paths, on route to our destination and camp for night - at Symonds Yat. .

Day 2 We will be loading our gear into the canoes for 9am, before setting sail back to Brockweir, via the stunning scenery of the Wye valley Gorge. Arriving at Brockweir, we have a 6 mile stretch back to Chepstow from Tintern to the finish line back at 'The Three Tuns' pub, in the car park of Chepstow Castle for 4-5pm - where a few people will be waiting to raise a glass with us for Gareth's birthday, for completing the journey, BUT most importantly – raising a few sheckles to get Gareth a memorial bench, designed by his mother, so that his loved ones have a place to sit and remember him in their own way.

All monies raised will go through a fund set-up for donations online, and will be given to the bench fund - anything over will be donated to Newport MIND in Gareth's Memory.

Anyone wishing to meet at the Yat for the nights camp only, also welcome!

Thank you for your kind support #itsokaytotalk #ItsOkayNotToBeOk #Mentalhealth