On April the 3 I plan to set of from the town of Coldstream in Scotland and 16 days later, I plan to reach Wellington Barracks in London. This will require an average of 27 miles of walking a day through the heart of England.

 

Despite a love for the outdoors, I am fully aware this will be a strenuous task and require huge effort in both the planning and performance of the task. However, I can think of no finer charity to work hard for. The Dougie Dalzell Mermorial Trust.

 

Dougie Dalzell, a fellow Radleain was an exemplary soldier who sacrificed his life while fighting in Afghanistan on his 27 birthday as an officer in the Coldstream guards. As a result of his efforts he was awarded the Military Cross. For this reason I have chosen my route based on the story of General Monk who walked the same route with his men in 1650 as he aided the restoration of the monarchy. This group of men would eventually become the Coldstream guards, which to this day is the longest serving regiment in the British army and the regiment I hope to join after university.

 

The charity is so unique and in my view so special as it is non specific and thus can adapt to the soldiers individual needs but it still requires funds to continue the good work it has started. Despite the British withdrawal from Afghanistan, it is still important to help and fund the rehabilitation of the brave men and women who have made sacrifices.

 

I plan to do this walk by myself, despite this, if anyone has the time to join me for a day or two, I would be most appreciative. More importantly, if anyone can think of place where I could stay near the route, this would help enormously with my fundraising and ensure a good nights sleep.

 

If you think you can help please don’t hesitate to email me.