2Teacher and Exeter alumnus David Eckett (St Luke's 1994-95) is walking 1000 kilometres in aid of charity.
Teacher to embark on million metre marathon for hospices and heroes
School teacher and Exeter alumnus David Eckett (St Luke's 1994-95) will fulfil a long held ambition by walking the 1000 kilometres of the South West Coast Path.
He is aiming to complete the walk in just 4 and-a-half-weeks and in so doing will aim to raise at least £10,000 for Children's Hospice South West (CHSW) and Help for Heroes (HfH).
Dave is currently a Year Head at Priory Community School in Weston-super-Mare, but as colleagues and pupils turn their attention to the start of the summer holidays, he will be setting off on his marathon adventure.
"I have completed several sections of the path in recent years," says Dave, "but I have never attempted anything as ambitious as 31 days of continuous walking but the trail passes through some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere, so I shan't get bored."
CHSW is the adopted charity of Priory School for this year and Dave has seen the fantastic work the West Country hospices do to support sick children and their families. Dave also feels strongly about the care we should give to members of the services who are returning from conflicts overseas. 'Putting the political arguments to one side I believe that the young men and women who make great sacrifices in their line of duty should receive the best possible treatment if they return to the UK injured.'
Dave has been sent a message of support from legendary adventurer, soldier and explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes. "He is an extraordinary man and a great hero of mine," says Dave. "If a person can cross the ice caps, climb Everest and run seven marathons in a week I'm sure I can successfully complete this walk - it's a stroll by comparison to those achievements."
Along the way Dave will be able to indulge himself in two of his favourite pastimes - photography and real ale. 'I will be keeping a photographic diary of the walk - not only is there so much dramatic scenery to be enjoyed but also there will be opportunities to record some of the West Country's wonderful wildlife.'
"Hopefully the weather will be warm and dry and having walked over 20 miles each day I think I will be in a position to appreciate a pint from one of the West Country's many excellent breweries - re-hydration will be an important consideration throughout this event."
Date: 22 June 2010
