1,206-mile walk for aunt

Rob Sherrington, 29, from South Shore, is preparing to walk 1,206 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End in aid of the Stroke Association, crossing the finishing line on his 30th birthday.

Rob will set off on his solo journey on Friday. He was inspired to raise money after his auntie Paula had a stroke in 2009 and was supported by the charity’s service in Blackpool, before she passed away four years later. His nan Jean has also had two strokes, and continues to raise funds and awareness for the charity.

Rob spent nine years in the Army, working in Iraq, and has just returned from two months travelling in Thailand, before embarking on his latest challenge. He’ll carry all his own equipment and camp during the journey.

He said: “The reason behind this challenge is to raise money for the Stroke Association, which is a charity close to my heart. Losing my auntie Paula to this terrible condition was an extremely sad time, but before this happened I couldn’t have told you what a stroke was. It’s only really when something personally affects you that you become more aware.

“I’m young, fit and a trek down the length of the country to raise some money for this charity is nothing compared to what my nan, who has survived two strokes, gets up to on a daily basis. She’s a real trooper!”

Rob is following in the footsteps of his brother Mike who previously walked from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 65 days, to also raise funds for charity.

Rob continued: “Last year my brother did this incredible walk and he inspired me to do something similar. I’m aiming to finish the walk in around the same time. I turn 30 on August 14 so I’m aiming to finish the walk on this date – not a day before or after!”

Sam Lord, Life After Stroke Coordinator at the Stroke Association, said: ‘We’ll be cheering Rob on every step of the way as he takes on this extremely demanding challenge. With the help of people like Rob, the Stroke Association can continue to support stroke survivors and families across the North West.”

To sponsor Rob, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/robshez1986