Charity

Whenever anyone finds out about my trip the first questlon is always, "Is it for charity?"

I realise that I could have raised a fair amount of money for a good cause and I do feel guilty in failing to do so. Let me say at the outset that I am a great admirer of those people that raise money for charities.

However, I have to be honest and the reason I am doing this walk is for me. It has been my ambition for over thirty years and I did not want anything to jeopardise my chances. There are enough pressures on me already (age, arthritic knees, backpacking all the way and taking a dog) without adding any more.

Many years ago in a Sociology lecture I remember being taught that every decision is a self-enhancing decision. I am wary of big butch men who relish any opportunity to dress up as schoolgirl hockey players "for charity". Likewise, those grey men in grey suits who meet in marble halls and do charitable deeds. They are there primarily to socialise, massage egos and 'network'. That they raise money for charity is great, but it is as a byproduct of their organisation.

I have deliberately tried to keep this trip low-key, telling few friends or neighbours. Less pressure. I vividly remember meeting two young men walking LEJOG for charity thirty years ago when I was doing the Pennine Way - except that they weren't, "walking" that is. They were catching buses, taking taxis and hitching lifts most days. Every evening they would question us about the day's walk so that they could fill in their diaries. There was so much expected of them that they felt they could not fail. I often wonder how they feel about it now?

Nevertheless, I would love to think that some good could result from my self-indulgent actions.
So if you have taken any vicarious pleasure from our journey and would like to give money to charity then may I suggest that the next time you see any tin collecting for any cancer charity then please put in another couple of quid for me and Gyp. Thanks.

Sorry to ramble on, but when you're alone in a leaky tent with a wet dog fast asleep beside you there is plenty of time to think.....