Taking the long route

Monday 07 September 2009

A Mencap supporter is walking from Newcastle to Cornwall to raise £30,000 for Mencap

Allan Blakeley, who has a son with a learning disability, set off on his walk from Newcastle on Saturday 5 September. Allan was waved on his way by Newcastle Falcons player Spencer Davey (pictured).

The 463-mile walk will take 21 days, finishing in Launceston, Cornwall on 25 September.

“My inspiration for doing this is my son, Kieran," he said. "In Kieran's world everything can be a challenge, and so I wanted to set myself something challenging that will help to raise awareness for people of all ages with a learning disability.”

To finish on time, Allan will need to walk an average of 22 miles each day. His costs are being paid for by FedEx, where he works as a director.

Allan is encouraging Mencap supporters to join him on certain legs of the walk. You can walk as far as you choose, there's no need to do the full stretch! Each walker will be asked to pay £10 and raise sponsorship.

You can keep up to date with Allan's progress and find out how to sponsor him by visiting his website, Who's Allan