Join us on an inspiring journey as we embark on the Hadrian’s Wall Veterans’ Trek, where a team of dedicated veterans will walk from Newcastle to Carlisle across the historic Hadrian’s Wall. Accompanying Mike, will be Terry Williamson and Gaz Byrne, all of whom served together in A (Champion) Coy 1st Battalion The King’s Regiment in the 90s. This trek, taking place on September 1, 2025, aims to raise vital funds for Sturge Weber UK, an organization committed to promoting research and sharing knowledge about Sturge Weber Syndrome.
Any final donations can be made using the link above.Leg 4 – Twice Brewed to Walton (16 miles).
We had good weather compared to yesterday but the terrain was hard going with already sore feet. We have finally made it down off the high ground and have an easier run into Carlisle tomorrow. Thought for the day – Cumbria is stunning when you stop and look up. I guess sometimes as a SW Dad, it helps to take stock. Far too easy to be constantly fixated on the negatives. By looking up and stepping back, it helps to get that perspective you sometimes need to realise that maybe it isn’t that bad at times and to be thankful for what you have. There are others who may be in a far worse predicament than yourself.
Leg 5 – Walton to Carlisle Train Station (12 Miles).
Day 3 – Greencarts to Twice Brewed. Just shy of 11 miles completed. In the non-stop rain over what became more challenging, craggy ground. Now in the Twice Brewed Hotel for the night enjoying a nice pint.
Today’s thought is about looking after yourself. Physically it’s been a race in our head to get to today’s finishing point so that we can relax and rest before tomorrow’s leg which will be a challenge in the bad weather. Reflecting as a SWS Dad, I think we must all as carers, seek and fight for opportunity to get headspace and rest before we head into the next period of challenge as we care for our loved ones. Whether it is a respite break, or a few hours kip, or a pint with friends to offload and get perspective then it must be fought for because we owe it to those with SWS to be the best version of ourselves to give them the best support that we can.
Leg 4 – Twice Brewed to Walton (16 miles – allegedly!) in gopping weather.
Day 2 – Heddon On The Wall to Greencarts campsite. 18 miles (longer than we anticipated!).
A tough, but our longest day. Plenty of time for reflection. I think resilience comes to mind. Our time on this adventure is relatively short but those we love and care for who live with SWS, well we can’t really compare to their resilience, or to that of their parents, carers and guardians who must sustain a steely determination through life to get through the stress, the appointments, the treatments and everything else. It is unrelenting and on reflection I am in awe of how resilient everyone truly is. My feet are killing me and I am tired, but it really is nothing in comparison. Humbling.
Day 3 tomorrow. Greencarts to Twice Brewed (Brewery, Gift Shop and Hotel woo woo!). 9 miles or so.
