Once upon a time, a friend of mine sent me a Facebook message about a walking mission to cover the 870 miles well-trod route (not root) from Lands End to John O’Groats. She said something along the lines of "if we did our pub walk once a week we might be a partial way there". To explain, during lockdown a mixture of the want of nothing else to do, trying to keep fit and the longing for a swift pint in a real pub, I had taken to walking to public houses on the outskirts of Colchester, looking at them and then walking home. How sad am I! ;) Anyway, to tell a long story short... I end up doing the challenge and my dear friend doesn't!!!

Having worked in the past for the charity Headway Essex I know what a lifeline it is not only for individuals with acquired brain injury but also for their families. They provide vital education about the impact of brain injury and how to cope, signpost to other important organisations, provide respite and most importantly, in my opinion, peer support. Everyone I met there from staff, volunteers to attendees themselves I have great admiration for and miss dearly.

Therefore if you did wish to donate money to this cause in receipt of some sore heels then I thank you in advance and give you a virtual pat on the back which is sadly so common these days!