At the start of August, we – Albert and Lukasz, both Year 12 students – will set off on one of the UK’s most iconic long-distance walks: the Coast to Coast route from the west coast at St Bees in Cumbria, to the east coast at Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire.

Over just 10 days, we aim to cover around 190 miles on foot, crossing three national parks – the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. Along the way we will climb steep mountain passes, tackle challenging terrain, face whatever weather the British summer throws at us, and carry all of our camping equipment on our backs.

This is far more than a leisurely walk. Completing the Coast to Coast in 10 days requires walking long distances day after day, often over tough terrain, while carrying everything needed to camp and be self-sufficient (we’re allowing ourselves just 2 hostel stays to get dry). It will be physically demanding, mentally challenging and, at times, uncomfortable – but that is exactly why we have chosen to do it.

We are raising money for WetWheels Foundation, founded by disabled yachtsman Geoff Holt MBE, which provides life-enhancing experience of the sea to disabled people, including those with complex and profound disabilities. Through its fleet of specially adapted powerboats across the country, WetWheels enables people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the freedom, excitement and confidence that being on the water can bring. Already taking 11,000 people on the water each year, by 2030 WetWheels wants to expand its fleet to 10 boats, and we want to help.

As students at Royal Hospital School and John Hampden Grammar School, we have both benefitted enormously from opportunities to challenge ourselves, develop resilience and enjoy the outdoors. We want to use this challenge to give something back and help other people access outdoor experiences that can change lives.

Every donation, no matter how large or small, will help support the fantastic work of this charity and provide extra motivation when our feet are sore and the miles are adding up!

Thank you for your support.

Albert & Lukasz