I always had a crazy plan to walk home from New Scotland Yard on my last day at work following 30 years’ service in the Met. Initially, it was simply an opportunity to think and reflect upon all the things that were important to me – the kind of things, I’m sure, we all push to the backs of our minds owing to our seemingly busier and busier lives.

However, living in the depths of Somerset (approx. 150 miles from central London) and retiring in the midst of Winter, presented two minor flaws to my plan. The significance of such trifling matters gained a new perspective when my beautiful wife, Stephanie, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018. Steph’s bravery was immense. She faced surgery, chemo and radiotherapy without complaint, no doubt to help shield me and our daughter from the terrible anguish she and all cancer patients must feel. Thankfully, Steph’s treatment is going well.

Steph’s care at Yeovil Hospital’s Breast Care Unit is exceptional. Somehow, the brilliant staff make us feel that we are their only patient and family, despite being one of a large number of people being cared for each day. Having worked closely with NHS colleagues for many years, I have always held healthcare professionals (and all the emergency services) in high esteem. But these heroes routinely walk-the-walk and go the extra mile - giving new meaning to my proposed tramp home.

So, armed with a tent, a compass, and a tin of beans, I shall be setting-off from NSY on Monday 6th of January 2020 at 1030 hrs and hope to arrive home, via the local pub, the following Sunday (I’ll probably be too smelly to go inside but looking forward to a pint in the beer garden).

All monies raised will go to Yeovil Hospital’s Breast Care Unit. 

See updates on Nick’s progress on Twitter @NWalkhome