Some of you may ask why am I doing this? Great question. However, the answer is not an easy one to give. I need to say thank you to so many people firstly, and how can I do this I, ask myself. The answer is to do or attempt to do something that will be hard for me. In 2012 I became disabled. For the next four years, I had to endure unbearable pain. The medication was endless; every day, it seemed the dosage increased. During this time, I began to rely on two people, a surgeon and a friend. The surgeon found the infection that had caused the trouble and repaired the damage it had inflicted. The friend, Brigette, opened the door to a life I had lost. She took me to church, The Church of the Good Shepeard on Shoreham Beach in West Sussex. Like the prodigal son I felt, I cried throughout the first three services I went to before I felt at home! During those four years, I had gotten myself so low, that I wanted to end it all by jumping off Beachy Head. Brigette showed me the love and encouragement to see all that love - was - everywhere around me. That unquestioning love I found in the congregation of our small church.

So, I intend to walk, which for me is extreamly difficult as I use both crutches and a wheelchair to mobilise. My walk will take place on November 24th starting at 11:30 am; from Shoreham Beach Fort to The Church of the Good Shepherd. using a four-wheeled walker, and I'm told - a distance of nearly two miles. (I may have to do it in segments) Our vicar, Jane, will carry my backpack containing food, water and medical necessities. I have also been promised refreshments en-route, so look forward to seeing some friendly faces who, hopefully, will cheer me on.

The hall is not only used by the church. Our community uses include; a nursery school, social gatherings, family parties, weddings and a plethora of other activities. The fabric of the building needs repairing, one major item is the repointing of the brickwork, with your donations this may well be done.

I am grateful to anyone who gives, my love and best wishes to you all.

Thank you.

George Hickman