Salisbury walking footballer completes coast-to-coast trek for hospice

A 77-year-old Salisbury man has raised more than £2,000 by completing the 192-mile Coast to Coast walk.

Steve Kelly completed the route from St Bees on the Cumbrian coast to Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire in 12 days.

The 77-year-old, a member of Salisbury Walking Football Club, chose Salisbury Hospice Charity after it cared for people close to him.

Mr Kelly began the challenge on August 6 and finished 12 days later.

Most mornings, he set off by 6.15am to beat the heat and tackle the long distances ahead.

Even careful preparation could not prevent trouble.

Mr Kelly said: “The heat was one particular challenge.

Support for the hospice was personal. Mr Kelly said: “I chose Salisbury Hospice because we had a family member cared for by their excellent staff. Also, two members of Salisbury Walking Football Club, which I am a member of, passed away there recently.”

Despite the physical and mental strain, Mr Kelly said the scenery and people made the walk worthwhile.

Mr Kelly said: “Apart from the fantastic scenery, I met some lovely and generous people.”

Mr Kelly had walked the Coast to Coast before and returned after route changes made it a national trail.

Mr Kelly said: “I have always liked to backpack and I have walked the Coast to Coast before.

His support for the hospice was personal.

Mr Kelly said: “I chose Salisbury Hospice because we had a family member cared for by their excellent staff.

His son, Marco, said: “I am very proud of him, as is my Mum Mo.”

Mr Kelly said the walk proved he could still take on a major challenge.

Mr Kelly said: “I am 77 years old, at least the body is, although the brain hasn’t realised that.”

The money will help Salisbury Hospice Charity support patients and families across the area.

Mr Kelly completed the walk despite heat, limited water and steep ground, and the charity has received more than £2,000 from his effort so far.

Salisbury Walking Football Club offers recreational and competitive opportunities, with the sport providing physical and social benefits.

Source: https://www.salisburyjournal.co.uk/news/26542834.salisbury-man-77-raises-2000-hospice-192-mile-walk/

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