Matthew was keen to set himself a personal challenge this year, and he decided to walk the Coast to Coast Walk; a 192 mile long-distance trek from the Irish Sea at St. Bees Head in the west, to the North Sea shoreline at Robin Hood's Bay in the East. Matthew, alongside his brother-in-law, Jack, decided to embrace nature and wild camp on their journey, something which inspired Matthew to turn his personal challenge into a fundraising challenge.

On one of his walking days he saw an adder, a common lizard, curlews, buzzards, kestrels, and lapwings! Protecting our environment has huge benefits for both people and wildlife. Evidence shows that a thriving, wildlife-rich environment benefits both physical and mental health. People with access to nature are more active, mentally resilient, have better concentration, reduced stress levels, and have better all-round health.

Matthew, alongside his brother-in-law, completed the trail in 12 days- averaging 17 miles per day. Matthew was blown away by the support he received, smashing his original target quickly, prompting him to rethink his goal.

We caught up with Matthew after a well-deserved rest once he had completed his challenge. “I enjoy hiking and have ticked off a few of the “Wainwrights” throughout the years, but I had never tackled anything as challenging as the Coast to Coast before. It was an exhilarating adventure, and the feeling of achievement will remain fondly in my memory for the rest of my life. I’m so grateful to anyone who donated and thank you all for helping me to raise so much money for a charity that is close to my heart”.

If Matthew’s incredible efforts have left you feeling inspired and ready to tick something off your own bucket list, now is the time – and you can raise vital funds for wildlife in the process!

Start your fundraising adventure today