​Sandbach septuagenarian puts his best foot forward for the Stroke Association

A 73-year-old grandfather from Sandbach has raised £4,000 for the Stroke Association by walking from Land’s End to John O’Groats over the course of nine months.

Stephen Davies was inspired to take on the walking challenge after he lost his wife Ann to a stroke in February 2016. Stephen began the first 340 mile leg of the journey in August 2016, with the final 760 miles completed during the spring this year.

Stephen said: “Ann and I were married very nearly 50 years. It’s been a huge challenge for my 73 year-old legs and two year-old hip replacement. With family and other commitments, I chose to cover the 1,100 mile, 64-day walk by dividing it into four sections based on national long-distance trails, such as the South West Coast Path, Offa’s Dyke and the West Highland Way.”

Stephen completed his walk when he reached John O’Groats on 14 May. He added: “Although my enjoyment was tempered by the reason for doing the walk, I’m so glad I did it and I certainly walked through magnificent scenery and met lots of interesting and friendly people. And of course I’m glad that with the support of lots of generous people – family, friends and complete strangers – I’ve raised a good amount of money for a very worthy cause; the Stroke Association.”

Mikaela Leape, Community and Event Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 100,000 strokes in the UK each year, it’s vital we have people like Stephen to help raise vital funds. We’re incredibly grateful to Stephen for taking on this challenge and raising such a fantastic amount; the money raised will go a long way in helping to support others who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”

To sponsor Stephen, visit www.justgiving.com/stephen-davies29. You can find out more about Stephen’s challenge, you can also visit his blog: www.walkingwithstephen.org.uk. For more information about stroke, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.