Amersham resident Tom Harrison is approaching the halfway point of his epic fundraising challenge.
Tom is on the ninth day of his 263-mile walk from Land’s End in Cornwall to Parliamentary Square in London. Hoping to replicate the experience that Ukrainian refugees are going through every day, Tom set off with no money whatsoever.
All Tom has taken is basic essentials such as a sleeping bag and a water bottle which can be filled up in a stream or people’s houses.
Tom spoke with My Local News from the road to discuss how he has gotten on so far.
He said: “It’s day nine, I am just heading along the grand western canal, heading east from Tibberton
“The hills of Cornwall were particularly hard. I’m just trying to navigate country lanes rather than main roads. I’ve had to weave around and have done more mileage than the crow flies. I’m probably behind where I thought I’d be but have been safer and had a more enjoyable experience.”
Tom has been relying on the kindness of strangers when finding a place to sleep.
“It’s been a mixed bag, though I know I can’t be fussy! I’ve been given use of a bell tent on a campsite, a summer house, and a free room in a Holiday Inn.
“I have had to knock on people’s doors, asking for help, asking for a sandwich. People are sceptical at first, but it’s a good way of spreading the message.
“I am basically like a wild animal, asking where am I going to sleep, where am I going to go to the toilet, where am I going to get food? I’ve become a bit more feral.
“It’s quite tiring and humbling, being dependent on others is a really difficult thing.”
Tom set a fundraising goal of £1,000 and has already reached more than £3,600.
“Every day I’ve had at least a donation, I just want to keep them coming in. I’ve hit my target, so everything now is a bonus.”
You can donate to Tom’s cause at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/landsendlondon
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