NEWS UPDATES 2013 – For detailed information and latest news reports please go to Recent Posts

   SUMMER NEWS LETTER – 2013 PILGRIMAGE SEASON (Featuring Oundle and Cornwall Walks/Publications & Fundraising).

ROBIN MOORE’S CORNWALL PILGRIMAGE WALK – Supporting Cornwall Hospice Care

Robin Moore gives up time and money each year in an effort to support Cornwall Hospice Care and has walked over 40,000km for charity in the last 20 years. We invite you to discover more about his amazing journey and to support his Cornwall Pilgrimage which has been dedicated to our local charity.

The main body of the walk covers a distance of over 50 miles connecting Mount Edgcumbe Hospice in St Austell to St Julia’s in Hayle (including a 6mile section known as the Gwennap Pilgrimage). This year Robin Moore will be developing the full end-to-end version of his Cornwall Pilgrimage Walk which originates from Launceston with link routes from Calstock following parts of the Tamar Discovery Trail; and Bude along the Cornish Way. The route from Launceston follows old railway lines, ancient tracks across Bodmin Moor and part of the North coast to Padstow and the Saints Way. This famous pilgrim trail runs coast-to-coast joining the South at Fowey; from here the journey follows the coast to Mount Edgcumbe Hospice which is the starting point of our main fundraising event.

 

MOUNT EDGCUMBE TO ST JULIA’S HOSPICE

Initially it follows the coast road to Pentewen where the journey interacts between coast path and cycle route as far as King Harry Ferry. Across the water it continues to Feock and Devoran where it joins the Portreath Tramroad. The remainder of the walk to Hayle is made up of the Gwennap Pilgrimage and Engine House Trail. We have added the St Michael’s Way for a fitting conclusion at the Mount; there are also 2 routes to Land’s End for those aspiring to complete the entire pilgrimage of Cornwall.

 

FUNDRAISING

Robin will be developing the Pilgrimage route this Summer and will invite the public to make a donation to Cornwall Hospice Care. Please fill in the attached envelope/gift aid and return it to Cornwall Hospice Care. There will also be a weekend Pilgrimage from Mount Edgcumbe to St Julia’s on August Bank Holiday Weekend starting at 10am Saturday August 24th. The Gwennap Pilgrimage Walk will take place at 10pm on Monday August 26th. We are hoping to hold a fundraising day with booksigning/pilgrimage information, and other fundraising events in the Gwennap Region over the course of this year. Any one wishing to host an event, promote the pilgrimage or raise funds for the charity by supporting Robin please contact either Sarah Newton at Cornwall Hospice Care or Robin on 01209 821025.

For updates about these events and information about the Cornwall Pilgrimage please visit: www.robin-moore.co.uk

Booklets/guides for the Gwennap Pilgrimage are available from Gwennap Pit between May and September. EBOOKS facility will be available from Robin’s Website in July.

CORNWALL HOSPICE CARE

Cornwall Hospice Care is an independent Cornish Charity which provides specialist clinical care and support to adults living with a life limiting illness at our two hospices. Our services are free of charge and this specialist service has an annual budget which now stands at 7.5 million. With limited help from the government more than 85p in the £ has to be met from voluntary and charitable support within the community. Robin is an unpaid volunteer who spends over 20 hours a week organising community events, and has spent over £40,000 funding books, expeditions and charity work in the last 20 years. In that time he has also walked over 40,000km to help raise awareness and funds for worthy causes. Please make his effort worthwhile with a small contribution to this special local charity that helps thousands of people and their families each year.

http://www.cornwallhospicecare.co.uk

OUNDLE PILGRIMAGE WALK

The Oundle Pilgrimage Event will take place from St Peter’s Church on the 10th August and a collection will be made for Sue Ryder on the morning of the Farmer’s Market. All events pertaining to the Pilgrimage will be published as soon as we have the full weekend itinerary. Please visit Trek-Kits at Oundle Wharf for more details or to enlist for this year’s pilgrimage. Walkers, cyclists and family groups are all welcome. The community will be supporting Sue Ryder’s local hospice Thorpe Hall throughout the weekend and all churches and inns will hold collection jars in honour of the charity.

SOUTHWICK WALKS

Robin and David Dixon have been working hard to develop walking in the region of Southwick and Rockingham Forest. A few booklet guides containing short walks will be available soon. Our first edition will also offer an extension/off-road section of the Oundle Pilgrimage route via  Southwick Woods to Woodnewton. Although designed as a circular walk, part of the journey meets the road to the Fotheringhay which forms the natural  pilgrim journey. You can find this volume of ‘Southwick Walks’ in the Pilgrimage Section of this website.

END OF SUMMER EVENTS

WALKING FRANCE FOR CANCER CHARITIES

See August Post for itinerary.

Charities to be named later.

 

SUMMARY OF THIS YEAR’S EVENTS SO FAR

  SUMMARY OF WALKS/CHARITY EVENTS 

PILGRIMAGE TO YPRES (Completed April/May 2013)

ROBIN MOORE’S NEW ZEALAND CHARITY EXPEDITION (Completed on 27th February).

TO READ HIS DIARY CLICK ON RECENT POSTS.

Celebrating his 20th year of charity walks, covering nearly 26,000 miles, Robin hopes to complete his next challenge in New Zealand. This occasion marks the 4th walk in a calendar year over the last 12 months (a walk for each season). His last walk helped to raise funds for the MOVEMBER Campaign at the Rose & Crown who have been instrumental in supporting Robin’s local charities. The effort raised substantial money for prostate cancer; some money for Cornwall Hospice Care and thanks to the generosity of the Rose & Crown 2 other charities (Air Ambulance and Sue Ryder) also benefited from the MOVEMBER Campaign. ‘Sal’ the manager of the Rose & Crown has been kind to all his locals and recently helped to raise £2,000 for a popular young gentleman who died before Christmas. The inn is also HQ for the Oundle Pilgrimage Project.

This photo represents the amount handed over to the charities mentioned who benefited from the MOVEMBER Campaign. The cheque was presented by charity walker Robin Moore and Rose & Crown assistant manager Stephen Cull, accompanied by the Oundle Mayor, George Higgins and staff representatives from Trek-kits.

In 2010, Robin founded the Oundle Pilgrimage to help put Sue Ryder on the local fundraising map (see below – Autumn Newsletter). ‘I wanted to create a Pilgrimage in honour of the charity as a thank you for helping local people and to raise its profile in Northamptonshire; we also encourage people to enjoy this wonderful historic region. Each summer the Oundle Pilgrimage dedicates a weekend to the Sue Ryder, though the walk can be done any time. I have recently published cycle routes and family guides to expand the project; we also have a pub walk which we hope to launch on St Georges Day.’

Robin is also working with David Dixon to help develop pub walks in and around Southwick and Rockingham forest.

His next challenge begins at the end of January on the South Island of New Zealand. It will be the last big walk of the country having already completed end-to-end and round the North Island expeditions, covering over 3,000km. He has also walked in Australia and plans to finish his travels in the continent next winter with another big challenge.
To help him raise money for the Cancer Society NZ and Cancer Research UK, please log onto his justgiving pages (when available) or make donations on the sponsor forms held at his local pubs.

Also see ‘Robin Moore’s Walking For Charity’ on FACEBOOK

Cancer Society NZ Fundraising page available soon (see Recent Posts)

To support Cancer Research UK click on the link below.

www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore4

www.robin-moore.co.uk

AUTUMN NEWS REPORT

ROBIN MOORE’S OUNDLE PILGRIMAGE

OUNDLE PILGRIMAGE CHEQUE PRESENTATION AT THE ROSE & CROWN AND MOVEMBER CHALLENGE IN AID OF PROSTATE CANCER INITIATED BY ROBIN MOORE’S LATEST EURO CHALLENGE WALK.

(See below)

Robin Moore’s Oundle Pilgrimage raises thousands more for local charity as supporters gather to acknowledge this year’s effort. Robin, the founder and author of its 3 booklet/guides, has enjoyed the success of the pilgrimage which now caters for cyclists and family groups. ‘We always encourage people to enjoy the magic of the countryside and local culture whilst promoting a worthy cause; usually we just invite people to make a donation to the Sue Ryder collection boxes at one of our churches or local inns. It is also possible to collect a sponsor form and challenge yourself to do the whole event on our charity weekend in August; or at any other time in the year if desired. Hopefully we will continue to develop the idea which is largely derived from my walks around Europe.’ With the support of Trek-Kits, the region’s churches/inns and commitment from local walkers led by Fotheringhay’s Nigel Laxton, Robin has helped put Sue Ryder firmly on region’s fundraising map.
Robin decided to build the project for the local charity in honour of Dean Ingram and other local friends who received palliative care at Thorpe Hall during their final days.
‘It was a good way to say ‘Thank You’ for caring for our friends and also to be able to put something back into a worthy cause that relies more than ever on help from the community.

To find out more about the Oundle Pilgrimage and other walks/books please visit: www.robin-moore.co.uk
Or Face book: Robin Moore’s Walking for Charity

MOVEMBER CHALLENGE

‘A PILGRIMAGE OF WAR  AND WORDS’

THE MENIN GATE

Based on 3 walks (with books to follow) to commemorate the hundredth anniversary of the First World War, this first expedition starts at the Menin Gate and continues through Northern France to Nantes. The effort supports Cornwall Hospice Care and Prostate Cancer – ‘MOVEMBER’. See justgiving pages to sponsor Robin; you can also visit the Coppice Inn, Lanner to support Cornwall Hospice Care or The Rose & Crown, Oundle to be part of the MOVEMBER Challenge where either Robin or Ned will sign you up to grow a moustache for Prostate Cancer.

WALKING THE WAR GRAVES OF FLANDERS AND NORTHERN FRANCE

PHASE 1 YPRES TO AMIENS (THE FIRST WORLD WAR)
DAY 1 – 5KM TOUR OF YPRES

Arriving at the Menin Gate was a memorable occasion in itself and having set up camp nearby, I was able to attend the last post ceremony which is conducted each night before dusk. It is always a poignant affair commemorating so many lives lost in the battle for freedom, and their names inscribed inside this huge monument convey the cost of history’s most horrific war. The Great War should never be forgotten for in this field of conflict have been so many sacrifices.

‘Over the top we go my friend,
To face bullet and barbed wire to our final end,
With only moments to live we struggle through the mud,
Into the darkness of battle, gun fire and blood.’

DAY 2. YPRES TO LILLE – 35KM

I began this first pilgrimage from the Menin Gate with thoughts of those less fortunate to have visited this little place nearly a hundred years ago. I hoped to take many photographs and write up my experiences on the road and note in particular any of the great battlefields I will see over the 3 walks I will do between now and 2014. Not far from town is Bedford House Cemetery where the strongest words of war are found on the epitaphs of the dead buried in a formation of white tombstones that spread for acres each side of a nearby stream. A touring party gathered close by as I perused a few rows looking for long lost relatives; it was a hopeless task as one could easily spend a week out here in search of a relative – many of the sections were simply listed as ‘Unknown Soldier’ and the regiments that served here were innumerable. In fact the whole stretch between here and Lille was interspersed with graveyards built literally where men from Britain and the Commonwealth had fallen in battle. The whole episode was poignant and humbling to walk among such bravery and sacrifice which is largely unimaginable in today’s world. These days people seem more stressed about second homes, cars and 100,000k bonuses to pay for it all. Many know not of the suffering of these great men whose epitaphs will remain iconic in these parts until the world’s end.
Crossing the border into France about 2pm, the passage gradually became more urbanised taking in a riverside stretch on the outskirts of Lille. After a walk through the town I was offered a room at the Hotel De la Treille (normally 185eu per night) for 41eu by the manager which I gratefully took and after 2 beers, bread and cheese retired to bed.

DAY 3. LILLE TO VIMY RIDGE – 40KM

VIMY RIDGE

Bidding goodbye to my hosts after a wonderful stay, I took the cultural route to the edge of the city where I continued my journey along the D925. Magnificent architecture and village war memorials were the dominant features of today’s journey as passed through Watignies, Seclin, Carvin and Lens where I sampled ‘café au lait’ in the sun outside a local restaurant. Feeling indecisive about which direction to take from here, an old gentleman crossed the road to offer advice. Following his instructions I was able to progress along an old road to Eleu and eventually Vimy where I stopped a shop to obtain groceries for the next two days. The main road continues through the ridge which is surrounded by timber fencing. It was near here that the Canadians fought a great battle during WW1. Locating an entrance to the forest marked by a Maple leaf, I entered and camped nearby that evening enjoying the peace and solitude the location offered.

DAY 4. VIMY RIDGE TO WARLINCOURT LES PAS – 45KM

THE CITADEL OF ARRAS

Rising at 7am allowed ample time to decamp and explore the area which has been designated as a national park in honour of the Canadians who fought here; beyond the area is a cemetery where the men fell in battle. There were many more of these along the way as my journey continued first to the lively town of Arras and then along a cycle route which showed insight into the quieter rural areas. Arras was steeped in ancient architecture with a plaza/citadel area reminiscent of Santiago in Spain. There was the usual confusion of finding an exit and I did not join my planned route though the cycle route proved invaluable allowing me safe passage as far l’Arbert. After a short blast along the main route I was able to turn off and follow the route to Pas-en-Artois where I found a camp site at Warlincourt les Pas.

DAY 5. WARLINCOURT LES PAS TO AMIENS – 40KM

The weather remained sunny – cool at night but pleasantly warm in the day reaching a top temp of about 17c. I had washed some socks and a shirt at the camp site the previous evening and they were drying out nicely on the back of my rucksack as I neared Pas-en-Artois. After a coffee at Pas-en-Artois, I began my trek through the Somme Region which was another important battle front during the Great War; those that fought here as with Ypres knew suffering beyond imagination. During the initial offensive in 1916, 20,000 men fell in the first hour of the campaign which by the end of the war had accounted for more than 600,000 casualties.
There were many memorials along the way and a few broken areas which resembled partial trenches now flanked by evergreens interspersed across miles of arable land. During the time of the war the landscape along the Somme River would have been unrecognisable as men sheltered in trenches from the barrage of shrapnel that left behind churned up mud, barbed wire and broken spirit. Today the forests look green enjoying the fertile terrain and I was amazed to find that many of the crops were yet to be harvested.
Passing a farm I saw a litter of cats learning their apprenticeship in the waste ground nearby. As I neared Amiens the traffic intensified and I had to ensure I got onto the correct route into the town. I saw no sign of the military HQ of the Somme Campaign; only a hospice building resembled anything that may have survived that era. It was quite pleasant down by the river and after collecting a few groceries I continued away from the place using a minor road which at least ensured me an opportunity to camp at one of the smaller villages. I managed to find a forest/park area around dusk and set up camp beside a small stream; apart from the furore of squabbling ducks, it was peaceful enough to ensure I had a few hours of quality sleep.

PHASE 2 AMIENS TO LE MANS
DAY 6. AMIENS TO MARSEILLE EN-BEAUVAIS – 50KM

Waking in a downpour I hastily packed my kit and headed off in the direction of Conty – roughly 14km.
I passed many villages and it wasn’t until I reached Conty that I realised I was on the wrong road!! It hardly mattered except for 3km excursion west to pick up my planned route to Crevecoeur-le-Grand. As it turned out it was even quieter than the last road journey as I headed away from the Somme Valley and relics of the Great War. Although Normandy had seen its share of conflict in the Second World War, today was celebrated by the rural composure of this beautiful countryside. So quiet were the villages I passed through that I did not even find a shop or anything that resembled a contemporary facility.
Eventually I arrived at Crevecoeur and was able to obtain water and food. It was after 5pm but I still managed to cover a further 10km to Marselle en-Beauvais and camped at dusk in a coppice by a ploughed field above the town. I sat for a while and watched the day draw to a close – the world seemed at peace here and so was I.

DAY 7. MARSELLE –EN-BEAUVAIS TO LES ANDELYS – 60KM

There was light rain during the night and it felt a few degrees warmer so I did not need to use my bivvy bag. Leaving at dawn in windy wet conditions, I was unable to obtain water for the first 10km. I had to go off course into a tourist village where I got water from the tourist office and later a coffee at a craft shop. Here I enthused about my experience of walking Europe and that so far I had made good progress on this trip. I continued in the rain stopping for more coffee and provisions at Gournay-en-Bray.
Pressing on in heavy rain I encountered farm machinery and speeding lorries which seemed to gather momentum in inclement weather. The conditions did not ameliorate and around 5pm I stopped at a small village for raisin bread and coffee. After photographing the cenotaph and church, I continued my journey towards Les Andelys which was a further 18km. Wet weather prevailed all day flooding the narrow road as darkness fell. By now I was at the mercy of speeding traffic with little en route other than the usual benign villages that would harbour no shelter or facilities. Finally at 9pm I entered the town of Les Andelys where I got a hotel room for 60 euros; later I managed to feed myself at a Chinese Restaurant on the buffet menu and after washing my wet clothes I fell into a deep sleep brought on through sheer exhaustion.

DAY 8. LES ANDELYS TO ST SEBASTIAN – 40KM

It was a relief to find refuge last night and I was also able to enjoy both an evening meal and breakfast for once. Walking in clean dry kit also put a spring in my step as I gathered pace throughout the first 10km to Gaillon. After coffee I managed another 15km to Evrioux where I gathered provisions for the night. Owing to a later start it was dark by the time I reached St Sebastian and so pitched a tent just a few km beyond the town at a small village park.

DAY 9. ST SEBASTIAN TO L’AIGLE – 56KM

Rising at 6am I was greeted with wet, windy conditions which prevailed initially though by the time I reached the lovely town of Condes (16km) the sun was shining I spent my meal break at the castle ruin. Nearby was a lovely slim-spire church; though the villages portray a quieter version of life compared to the larger towns, they abound with character hallmarked by Gothic-style buildings Norman churches and elegant bell towers. There was also a great sense of rural isolation about the journey occasionally broken by forests frequented by deer and red squirrels. There was a dead adder lying in the roadside and some huge toads which had also been crushed by the speeding traffic. I stopped at La Neuve-Lyre around 5.30pm and a further 12km saw at L’Aigle where I did my shopping. On locating my next route at the end of town I pitched camp on the rough ground above the carriageway.

DAY 10. L’AIGLE TO BELLAME – 50KM

Decamping at 7am, saturated in dew, I made my way through the rural countryside along the quieter D930 as far as the next town (10km) Les Apres where I stopped for coffee.
By midday the cloud cover turned to drizzle which was set for the duration of the outing. The slow hack took in a large expanse of forest broken by diminutive communities culminating at Mortagne Au Perche at 3pm – 30km completed.
From here I embarked on the last stage of phase 2 to Le Mans.
The rain grew heavy – not boding well for camping tonight; I had one further coffee break before completing the last 10km to Bellame where the local grocer was very kind and helpful. She warmed me up with a drink and contacted the local priest to help find me a place to stay. He turned about 9pm and took me to a small shelter which is used for homeless people a few meters from the shop. Here I welcomed the use of a shower and a bed for the night thanks to the kindness of these people whom I’d only just met.

DAY 11. BELLAME TO LE MANS – 54KM

Large Grass Snake

Rising early I set off from the shelter around 8am, taking a few photos before leaving town. At least I had a dry start though my kit was wet and my knee hurt due to the extra weight of my rucksack– about 70lbs in all.
8km into the day I stopped for coffee at a village called Ige. From here I pressed on to a supermarket where I brought my lunch and chatted with the young maid who was actually fluent in English. Whilst I was eating my food the shop closed and the maid came over to wish me well as I went on to explain that I would be walking the rest of Northern France. An 11km walk saw me arrive at Bonne Table – by now I was 30km from Le Mans. The afternoon passed quickly and the weather stayed warm though there was a build up of traffic 10km from Le Mans. Unable to find any facilities I pressed on into town where eventually I found a bar that was still open on a Sunday. Here the locals welcomed me and praised my efforts. The landlady brought over meat and bread and the girls I met bought me drinks. Later one lady called Laelilia showed me where to camp and gave me her address so that I could get a shower and breakfast in the morning – all in all it was a good end to the day.

PHASE 3 LE MANS TO NANTES (NORTHERN FRANCE BORDER)

DAY 12. LE MANS TO MAILCOMBE – 35KM

LE LOIRE

Having poured of rain all night I managed to pack my gear and tent quickly and then find my friend’s flat where I enjoyed a shower and breakfast whilst she dried some of my clothes. Bading farewell about 10pm I encountered road repairs; most people I had spoken to here lived in fear of the Taliban though this place seemed more under siege of a JCB as the whole town centre had been decimated by road works. On leaving Le Mans I faced heavy rain throughout the day which was also the forecast for the week. It was hard to keep going and I made more than the usual stops to get me to reach La Suze and Mailcombe where on finding a reasonable hotel opted to stay the night. I welcomed the comfort of a room and a chance to dry out my gear, which had become increasingly heavy due to inclement weather. Just as I had called it a day down came a huge storm which justified my decision to stop at the inn.

DAY 13. MAILCOMBE TO ANGERS – 60KM

A good night’s rest gave me strength and with a dry start I made light work of the D23 to Durtal covering 25km by 1.30pm. I now had to make the decision on which route to take to Nantes which was about another 150km.
Traffic died down in the afternoon due to a road works which completely blocked off the next town; it would seem that maintenance here is a serious business leaving the thoroughfare barely passable with no access to shops/restaurants nearby. Later I passed over the River Loire for the first time admiring the views of mill and waterfalls on the left. It was a huge boost as the Loire is a natural border of Northern France and a reminder that the end of the journey was now in sight. From Seiches Le Loir I would power my way through the final outposts of this epic journey heading first for Angers; then a 100km stretch along the main carriageway by the river to Nantes.
It was a great effort and I gave my all as I reached Angers by nightfall – the last big town before Nantes which I hoped to reach sometime on Thursday.
By the time I reached the top of town I found a Pension and decided to stay there for 40eu including breakfast rather than camping.

DAY 14/15 ANGERS TO NANTES – 100KM

Having enjoyed a good night’s rest I indulged in a nourishing breakfast leaving the pension around 7am – still dark. I was soon perplexed by the intricate motorway system and had difficulty getting on to a pedestrian route. Having stopped at a few hotels to obtain instructions on how to escape this place, I managed to follow a country lane which took me to St Jean De Lineare. It was a bit of a lottery getting there as the penultimate junction wasn’t sign posted; thankfully turning right led me to the correct destination.
After a much needed coffee I joined the D723 to St Georges s-Loire (11km) with Nantes registering a further 79km.
After some drizzle it brightened up and I made the most of the little towns along the way stopping at St Georges and Capogiate with its castle ruin. Entering a café I met a mad woman who kept pestering me and trying to get drinks of customers as they came through the door; none of them stayed long! Worse still she spoke fluent English and started ranting at me and mocking my efforts for charity. Even after I left she pursued me in a car despite having downed a good volume of wine whilst at the café.
The whole affair was quite unsettling as I tried to concentrate along the busy road. Wet weather came and so did the blisters as I wore down my training shoes to bare rubber. I eventually resorted to wearing size 9 walking shoes – ouch!! These really pinched my heels – all the walking had made my feet swell to size 10 which is my usual expedition shoe size.
By 6pm I had completed 50km taking in Ingrandes and Varades with Nantes another 40 plus left to walk. After a coffee I soldered on to the last main town en route called Alcenes which was slightly west of the D723 on the River Loire. As dusk drew near I struggled to find a route out of the town and after consulted a maid at an inn I continued along a subsidiary road which eventually rejoined the D723. The walk became intense in the pitch black and pouring rain and at the next town junction, 29km from Nantes, I felt that I was too sore to continue efficiently. In desperation I tried to put up a tent in the dark. The ground was hard and I was unable to drive the pegs in sufficiently and so just made a temporary shelter where I rested for a couple of hours from a relentless storm. Unable to sleep I dismantled the shelter as soon as the rain stopped and continued walking in the dark. The respite was only a short one and as the storm recommenced so did the build up traffic. It was like walking up a stream at times and the speeding trucks made the journey a hazardous one. As the menacing trucks rolled by, in the distance there were lightning flashes as thunder roared across the sky. Eventually daylight began to emerge from the heavy clouds and on finding a café on the outskirts of town I stopped for a drink and chat to the owners who told me the train station was a further 10km. It was a difficult passage in the side of the road and I stopped once more for a breakfast at Macdonalds. From here I gradually made my way to the train station to conclude my walk and after the monumental effort from the previous day I was glad to obtain a bit of food and a comfort as I began the journey back home. From Nantes Gare I was able to get a train to Rennes; a second one to Morlaix where a bus took me to the town of Roscoff where I awaited the ferry service back to Plymouth. I had missed today’s voyage and therefore booked into a hotel for the night.

Roscoff was a lovely place which I would hope to visit again in the Spring when walking the Bordeaux section from Biarritz. Now was the end of season and it was pleasantly quiet as a young maid at the hotel made me welcome and helped with important information. After enjoying a sunny morning by the harbour I made my way to the terminal where I boarded the ferry to Plymouth around 1600 hours. Arrival in Redruth was not until after midnight.
The whole effort was something of an epic, starting at the Menin Gate in the shadow of World War 1 and finishing along the Loire in Northern France.
At this stage I’d like to appeal to the public to make an effort to support either of my chosen charities by making a donation to my justgiving pages featured on the website. You can also make donations at the inns mentioned on our newsletters.

FUTURE PILGRIMAGES OF WAR
WALK 2 – 2013 – GERMANY/HOLLAND TO THE MENIN GATE
WALK 3 – 2014 – BASEL TO THE MENIN GATE

CHEQUE PRESENTATION – SUE RYDER  – FRIDAY 9TH NOVEMBER AT 7.30 ONWARDS / LAUNCH OF ‘MOVEMBER’.
PROSTATE CANCER PRESENTATION (DECEMBER)
CORNWALL HOSPICE CARE (2013)

NEXT EVENT
WALKING NEW ZEALAND 2013. Robin has booked a flight but has no money available to support him in NZ; he is at present applying for work but almost certainly will require some sponsorship. If you are able to help him financially please contact him on : 07706197209; at present this is the only way he can be sure of realising his goal and our charities will be indebted to your support. See testimonial from Sue Ryder as an example of what Robin is prepared to do for charity; (also archives).
Itinerary Commencing from 26th January 2013 from Christchurch

PHASE 1

Christchurch to Greymouth via Arthur’s Pass

PHASE 2

Greaymouth to Haast

PHASE 3

Haast to Wanaka

PHASE 4

Wanaka to Queenstown

PHASE 5

Queenstown to Dunedin

Finish 5th March.

Watch this space for full itinerary and how to support Robin’s Charities.

TESTIMONIAL FROM SUE RYDER

Ref:  Robin Moore

Over the last few years Robin Moore has raised several thousands of pounds for Sue Ryder, Thorpe Hall Hospice, through a number of amazing fundraising activities he has organised.

We are 20 bed hospice and need to raise over £1m every year to be able to continue to provide the specialist individual care needed to those suffering from incurable illnesses in the local community.

Robin, through his own personal expense and time, created a brand new fundraising legacy – the Oundle Pilgrimage – which has become a popular annual event.  All money raised from this has benefited local people.  As well as the thousands of pounds he has raised for our hospice through this event, it has also generated a wide range of publicity across magazines and newspapers, and has helped to increase the awareness of our charity.

Robin takes no personal expense back from our charity incurred whilst organising these activities.  Through his charitable nature he has helped thousands of people, not just through Sue Ryder, but through many other charities around the world.

Sue Ryder is incredibly grateful for all he has done to help us and many hundreds of local people.

Alison Toomey

Regional Fundraiser

Thorpe Hall Hospice

PREVIOUS PRESENTATION (SEPTEMBER)

ROBIN MOORE’S CHEQUE PRESENTATION FOR CANCER RESEARCH U K

On Monday 24^th September at the Rose & Crown Oundle, Robin Moore handed over a cheque for £650 to fundraising executive, Annette Beeton from Cancer Research UK in honour of his anniversary walk from Land’s End to Oundle. The walk replicated his first effort for the charity over 20 years ago and therefore represents a significant milestone in an era of power-marching; since then he has walked over 25,000 miles and written over 20 books about his travels as well as some useful walking guides. Although it was staged initially as a celebration event it was also a dedication to much-loved friend Colin Davies, who sadly died of pancreatic cancer last Christmas. ‘We enjoyed many years of cricket together and Colin was one of my greatest supporters often helping to finance some of my charity walks abroad.’ The funds raised will go towards equipment at the Oncology Unit, Peterborough Hospital (part of the Cambridge Research Institute which is the largest in Europe).

 

The walk went well despite undergoing a hernia repair a month earlier, though Robin expresses his disappointment about not raising more money. ‘ There were technical problems initially with the website going down (justgiving page/ newsletters ect), but more sadly the weather thwarted our campaign over the summer and we could not host the anniversary Cheese & Wine evening which would have added to the purse. Also, I published a pub guide/ article with the Nene Valley News which we intended to use as a St George’s Day fundraising celebration. The weather denied us the opportunity and despite other attempts there was no point in prolonging the presentation with new campaigns now pending. I can only say how grateful I am to Shawn and Kim from the Rose & Crown, who have put themselves out to help me raise the funds required for my charities. The proprietors have raised thousands of pounds for many local charities and we are also expecting to present a large cheque to Sue Ryder in November (in excess of £2000) from the Oundle Pilgrimage event which was sufficiently productive despite the poor summer season.’

The walk was also supported in Cornwall through Robin’s local inns, The Fox & Hounds Comford, and the Coppice, Lanner who are presently involved in Robin’s latest campaign for Cornwall Hospice Care.

 

Robin has raised over £30,000 for cancer research – £12,000 has been presented from Oundle alone, (other campaigns received National support). ‘When I first started raising funds for the charity (then Imperial Cancer Research Fund), nobody locally had heard of them – since those enduring days many of my supporters them and friends have all done something for the cause out of respect of what I have achieved personally. I probably feel just as proud helping to inspire others as I am presenting the cheques!’

 

Robin’s recent walk from Belgium to Nantes was in honour of the Prostate Cancer Charity and will go towards the Rose & Crown ‘MOVEMBER’ Campaign (also see Robin Moore’s Austrailia Walk for this charity).

In Cornwall support will go towards Cornwall Hospice Care – supported by the Coppice Inn, Lanner; The Fox & Hounds, Comford and Lanner Inn are also big supporters of Robin’s charity walks.

Events will be held locally to raise money for Robin’s charity walk across Europe.

 Fundraising events at the Coppice include car boot sale and sponsored Karaoke; all other ideas are welcomed! Online justgiving pages are available below. 

 

www.robin-moore.co.uk

www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore

www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore3 

Also on Face book: ‘Robin Moore’s Walking for Charity’

 

FUNDRAISING FOR CORNWALL HOSPICE CARE

THE CORNISH PILGRIMAGE
Supported by the Coppice Inn, Lanner
Founded by Robin Moore as a project for Cornwall Hospice Care, this trail connects Mount Edgcumbe Hospice in St Austell to St Julia’s in Hayle; it forms the main section of a 160-mile pilgrimage of Cornwall from Launceston to St Michael’s Mount.

Based on the recent campaign for Cornwall Hospice Care, Robin Moore invites walkers to try this 3-day challenge.

START: Mount Edgcumbe Hospice, Porthpean Road, St Austell.
TRANSPORT: Bus Stop and Railway Station share the same location at the top of St Austell.
WALK: (80 miles, moderate to easy terrain) formed from bridleways, public footpaths, mineral trails and tram roads interchanging with the Cornwall Coast Path and Cornish Way. Some sign posts are marked with yellow tape and St Piran Scallop Shells denote the Gwennap Section.
INNS: There are over 30 inns along the way; locations include: Pentewan, Mevagissey, Port Mellon, Portloe, Veryan, Philleigh, Devoran, Carharrack, St Day, Lanner, Comford, Camborne, Gwinear,  and Hayle.
CAMPSITES: Pentewan, Boswinger, Veryan and St Day.
B&B: The Ship Inn, Mevagissey; The Lugger Hotel, Portloe; The New Inn, Veryan; The Lanner Inn, Lanner.

Taking in nearby hamlets and villages the journey sets off along Route 3 which spurs off the Porthpean Road at Mount Edgcumbe Hospice. After following its course to the outskirts of St Austell, Route 3 connects with the Pentewan Tramroad and follows the river along a woodland course for about 3 miles. The trail terminates at the Pentewan Cycle Hire, offering an opportunity to visit The Ship Inn or perhaps the pleasant café in the square. Continuing beyond the village to the campsite, locate the coast path near the entrance. After descending through the pastures to a small bridge, a steep climb above the bay rewards participants with seaward views of Fowey and Pentewan Sands to the left.
A further descent leads to Mevagissey Harbour where leisure craft mingle with local fishing vessels that still help to provide a living for this popular tourist centre. The coast path continues along the busy thoroughfare and over another hill as it tumbles into Port Mellon – a tranquil spot known for its lovely harbour and inn close by. The journey now moves away from the coast as it follows Route 3, contrasting the windswept cliffs and bustling seaside resorts to the peaceful rural heartland of Roseland.

Follow the road (Route 3 markers) to the campsite at Boswinger (there is also a Youth Hostel), and then continue to the top of Caerhay’s Estate where there is a public footpath. The descent along the footpath leads to Porthluney Cove where the cafe is open in summer season. This tranquil little beach is popular among visitors and locals; another is Portholland which can be reached along the coast path (1 mile). Staying on the coast path from Portholland continue to Portloe where the next couple of miles will certainly clear the lungs! The Cornwall Coast Path is uniquely exacting with dramatic headlands and steep coastal valleys that ensure the journey remains a formidable one. The descent into Portloe immediately captures an idyllic picture postcard view of the harbour which typifies a Cornish fishing village. At the bottom is the Lugger Hotel and a short distance uphill is The Ship Inn which also provides accommodation. Past the pub car park is a row of houses on the right where a foot path to Veryan forms the next section of the pilgrimage trail. This is a welcome reprieve from the strenuous coast path and provides a pleasant route to Veryan finishing at the park next to the church. There is a shop nearby and a pub which serves excellent food. The Roseland Inn at Philleigh is the only other pub along this route as far as King Harry Ferry. The journey to reach this location is covered along Route 3 which passes Pendower before heading inland for the next 3 miles. There is a footpath to Philleigh marked with yellow tape which snips off a small section of Route 3. The whole affair is typically rural where the smell of the countryside is ever present. From The Roseland Inn, there is a further 2-mile walk to reach King Harry Ferry where a 10-minute crossing concludes this part of the pilgrimage. Leaving Roseland behind, continue to the Feock Junction and then the village. Passing the church, continue for another mile along the road to the public footpath which avoids any excursion to Point. The path leaves a housing estate via a woodland track then joins the fore shore at a boatyard; after crossing a small bridge it eventually joins the Portreath Tramroad at Devoran. The Tramroad was opened in 1809 to serve the mining communities; it was initially horse-drawn between Devoran Quay and Portreath Harbour transporting ore and other minerals such as arsenic to the ports. All that remains at Devoran now is The Quayside Inn which at least offers a welcome rest to travellers. Beyond Devoran (about 4 miles) is the Bissoe Cycle Hire which also has a café. The pilgrimage leaves the Portreath Tramroad at Twelveheads where it continues to Carharrack.

On reaching Carharrack look for the Route 3 marker on the right which forms the cycle route to Vogue; the walking route follows an uphill footpath (School Hill) to St Day and then drops down through Vogue. At Vogue take the left fork and walk about 1.5 miles to Gwennap Pit, (300 metres on the left of Route 3). John Wesley preached at this open air amphitheatre 18 times during the latter part of the 18th century and a service is still held here each Whitsun. The pit was naturally formed from mining subsidence during a period when the Gwennap Region was the richest square mile on the planet. Half a mile along the road from Gwennap Pit, turn right onto a public foot path which leads to Carn Marth. This bridleway can be muddy at times but turning right at Carn Marth leads onto a more solid, wider track. Bear left at the quarry and descend to Pennance Mine and the main road. Cross carefully and walk up the lane opposite to the Tresavean Tramroad. Continue along this trail to Churchtown where you can re-join Route 3 which crosses Carn Brea along the Great Flat Lode. At the Mineral Trail Office stay on Route 3 to continue into Camborne; this road enters the town via the railway station and a nice place to call into is the Railway Inn. There is also a Wetherspoon’s inn at the end of town near the Route 3 marker to Penpol.
The pilgrimage continues along an off road section next to the park which enters the village underneath a railway bridge. Route 3 makes its way from here to Hayle via Carnell Green, Gwinear and Coppertown.

To support Robin and help Cornwall Hospice Care please visit the Coppice Inn to make a donation or to join in with our fundraising events; these will be published on the Coppice website and at: www.robin-moore.co.uk
‘Robin Moore’s Pilgrimage of War and Words’ will also support Cornwall Hospice Care and an online justgiving page will be available next month at his website. In-depth Information about the Cornish Pilgrimage and other walks/booklets can also be found at his website.

OCTOBER EXPEDITION – Belgium War Graves to the Bay of Biscay

Fundraising for Cornwall Hospice Care

www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore3

And

  MOVEMBER

www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore

- Supported by the communities of Oundle and Lanner

Itinerary to be posted after Cancer Research UK Presentation at the Rose & Crown (21st September).

SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2012
Oundle Pilgrimage
Anniversary Walk/Presentation
New Book Titles
The Cornwall Pilgrimage
A Pilgrimage of War and Words

Oundle Pilgrimage 2012 Poster – V1

THE OUNDLE PILGRIMAGE
  11th/12th August
The weekend Pilgrimage raises funds for Sue Ryder- Thorpe Hall Hospice and so far this year has collected around a £1000; this is largely thanks to the efforts of Nigel Laxton and his team from Fotheringay and the Rose & Crown, Oundle where Cecille’s tambola was a sell out – well done all of you – fantastic effort!
Walking or cycling, one can enjoy a liberating experience as the route cuts through the Nene Valley encountering riverside walks, estate woodlands, historic sites and ancient buildings. This was our second anniversary with live entertainment and beer festival at the Rose and Crown in honour of the occasion. Innkeepers Shawn and Kim have been great supporters of my events and since putting our campaign for Sue Ryder on the map with the pilgrimage project, they have followed up the idea with some great fundraising events.

The Pilgrimage takes in local inns and churches along the way where participants will receive a stamp on their passports at each stop. Certificates are given to those who complete a section of the journey.
The walking guide and Passports (sponsor forms optional) are on sale at Trek-Kits, Oundle: contact: 01832 272 050 Email info@trek-kits.co.uk
Funds raised from the event will go to Sue Ryder and there will be a presentation at the end of October.

ITINERARY
DAY 1

ST PETER’S CHURCH (Time- Cyclists 8am, walkers 8.30am)
ROSE & CROWN (Time 8am onwards– breakfast optional/by order)
ASHTON GREEN (Coffee at Chequered Skipper)
THE KING’S ARMS, POLEBROOK (Tapas Menu available)
THE MONTAGU ARMS (food available all day)/ BARNWELL CHURCH
THURNING CHURCH (refreshments/campsite and Camino Stamp)
TITCHMARSH (2 inns)
PEAR TREE FARM, ALDWINKLE (Campsite/B&B and Tearoom)
THE KING’S HEAD, WADENHOE, (riverside beer garden)
STOKE DOYLE (Church/Inn)
OUNDLE CEMETERY (Retire to the Rose & Crown festival)
It may be possible to camp at Oundle Rugby Club (contact Rose & Crown for details).

DAY 2 (Return to Oundle Cemetery)

THE SHUCKBUROUGH ARMS, SOUTHWICK (picnic lunches available to order).
THE FALCON INN, FOTHERINGHAY (a chance to visit the church and historical mound).
THE CROWN INN, ELTON  (Church/Inn and village green)
WARMINGTON (The Red Lion Inn/church)
OUNDLE/ASHTON (Completion)
Other Oundle Inns associated with the Pilgrimage are:
The Ship Inn
The Talbot
The Angel
The George
All facilities/accommodation are listed in the pilgrim guide. Also available are our new ‘Young Family Walking’ and Cycle Route Guides; there is a Pilgrimage Section on the website – for more information visit:
www.robin-moore.co.uk
www.trek-kits.co.uk

ANNIVERSARY PRESENTATION – CANCER RESEARCH UK

This will take place around 3rd week in September all being well at the Rose & Crown; the walk itself was a low key affair emulating my first ever walk and ironically, as in 1992, technology played no part either- my website went down the first day I started! Only £30 was raised via online services though we raised nearly £500 from sponsorship in Cornwall and collections that have so far been made at the Rose & Crown  (Polebrook also supported the effort). Sadly our pub walk which was scheduled at the end of the trek was a washout too, and the fundraising cheese and wine evening is now also lost as it rains pretty much all the time here  – we just can’t arrange anything! Its not the first time I’ve been cursed with bad weather and having experienced these problems before have now concluded there will be little chance of holding this summer event – its time to move on.

OVERVIEW

During April 2012, Robin reached a landmark of 25,000 miles walked on charity expeditions and pilgrimages over a 20-year period based around one walk per year (more recently 2 walks per year).

Archives/diaries about his travels/adventures are now available from his website and you can download books from his EBOOKS section from £1 which goes to charity.
An account of the recent walk can be located at the front page of the Cancer Charities section and is also in the newsletter archives. Any money raised from this event will be presented to Cancer Research UK. Owing to dismal weather and technological problems we have not been very successful so far though we have been able to link up the justgiving page and still have one event (garden Party) to run in July. Hopefully we can still raise a significant amount to present to the charity by August 1st.
To help support Robin’s efforts and sponsor the charity for his epic journey please make a donation at:
www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore2

NEW BOOK TITLES
These largely feature our pilgrimage guides although there may still be time to launch Volume 2 of ‘Robin Moore’s Great Britain Walk’.
All titles are available at Trek-Kits, Outdoor Adventure Store and Oundle School Bookshop. New titles are as follows:
The Young Family Walking Guide (Oundle Pilgrimage – available now)
Pilgrimage Cycle Route (available now)
Pub Walk in the Nene Valley (publishing date Sept)
The Mary Queen of Scots Trail (Publishing date October)
The Gwennap Pilgrimage (Cornwall Pilgrimage – available now)

Please browse through the archive sections which contain day-to-day diaries recorded on expeditions; some of which have been re-written and edited as books. See EBOOKS or visit our book stores to purchase those of interest.

THE CORNWALL PILGRIMAGE
Robin Moore begins his annual pilgrimage of Cornwall on 22nd August which culminates with a local walk of the Gwennap region on Bank Holiday Monday. This year the event will be held at the Coppice, Lanner where locals are invited to join Robin on a walk for St Julia’s Hospice (Awareness for Cornwall Hospice Care). We hope to start around 10am and there will be entertainment later in the day which will include music and a possible cheese and wine evening. Please look for updates under the Pilgrimage section. A full itinerary will be posted in August after the Oundle Pilgrimage Weekend.

A PILGRIMAGE OF WAR AND WORDS
The end of season walk will hopefully take place across the First World War Battlefields which will cover up to a 1000km of the continent. Robin has already completed walks around Southern Europe and hopes to progress through Northern France and Belgium on his next leg.
An itinerary has yet to be decided and a charity to be named (assuming we can gather enough interest to support a local cause). We are hoping to support Cornwall Hospice Care and ‘MOVEMBER’.
Please view for updates to this page.
SPRING NEWSLETTER

ROBIN MOORE’S ANNIVERSARY WALK

Also available at with photo albums at:

www.facebook.com/WalkingForCharity

www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore2

On April 20th 2012, Robin Moore completed a walk of 400 miles from Cornwall to Oundle in honour of Cancer Research UK. Barely a month after having surgery for a hernia repair, Robin set off from Land’s End on a 3-day walk to Bodmin to test his fitness; from there he continued with camping equipment beyond the border and on to the Nene Valley taking a fortnight in all to complete. Cold, wet weather added to an already difficult task, though Robin was encouraged by the wonderful people he met along the way. The event mirrored his first ever achievement for the charity (then Imperial Cancer Research Fund) which he completed in May 1992 when locals at the Ship Inn raised nearly £600 for his effort. Although the walk was deemed a ‘one off’, it turned out to be the first of many! Throughout the decade Robin completed several walks, usually during his summer break from college/work, culminating with an epic 4,000 mile trek around Great Britain for the Macmillan Nurses which raised over £20,000 for the cause.

THE STORY (brief historical overview)

Since then, the expedition walker/travel writer has completed 25,000 miles (pilgrimages/ charity walks) and has raised/contributed about £100,000 to Cancer Charities during that time.  As a challenge walker who enjoys testing himself on demanding journeys, usually with limited support, Robin has an added interest in writing books/diaries and is in the process of developing a new website about his adventures. This work has been inspirational to many people who have in turn stepped forward to meet their own challenges; the books also go a stage further in helping to promote many of these worthy causes. Over half the walks have been completed for charity, and significant amounts have been raised for cancer research / local hospices who Robin continues to support. Robin has also been a major fundraising catalyst abroad; working as a volunteer for organisations in the Commonwealth, he has helped develop fundraising projects/ideas. In the last decade, he has walked whole countries raising the profile of charities with media coverage and distribution of leaflets/donation envelopes which he delivers each day to help create awareness.

 

THE PILGRIMAGE PROJECT

More recently, in the last few years he has dedicated time to developing Pilgrimages back in the Nene Valley (Oundle) and his family’s home in Cornwall. The projects have been set up in honour of regional hospices who Robin works closely with. The walks so far have raised several thousand pounds plus additional funds from spin-off events. With growing support from the communities, these events look destined to become major fundraising activities in the future.

SPARE A MOMENT FOR A MAN OF THE ROAD

‘In the last 20 years as an endurance walker, my only regret is not raising more money for charity. The great effort I put in to walking these distances never seems to be rewarded accordingly by the public who take for granted that I will always succeed!! Having grown up in the small communities of Oundle and Carharrack in Cornwall, it has proved difficult to obtain substantial support for one fundraising walk per year. In addition, I have to fund my own expenses through work, family, friends and corporate help so that I am in no way a burden to the charities I represent, (I have donated £40,000 to the cause to date). The greatest donation is time; the charity walks are the end product. The time spent at home on a computer promoting charities/organising averages over 20 hours per week. Aside from the financial logistics of each walk, comes the day-to-day management of the workload which is a barrier in itself. Each day on the road requires media interviews, which are necessary to give the charities good exposure: this sometimes incurs 16 hours of effort. Over the years, my local support has still been great despite the repetition of it all, but as a one-man army operating beyond the realm, my limitations are exposed. It is illegal to ask the public for money and so I have to rely on leaflet/donation forms distribution, sponsor forms and more recently an online ‘Just Giving’ page; funds handed into charity shops, or sent to a regional office without my reference will not be credited to me.

Life on the road with a backpack and no support crew usually means a long day (10-15 hours) in hazardous circumstances where my main concern is about my safety; then water, food and shelter. There are days of loneliness and times when the job does not seem gratifying, though people in general are kind and hospitable; some of whom have become my friends. Others send money in the gift aid envelopes, and the support for local charities back home is excellent, giving me the incentive to carry on to the next level. ‘As a free spirited person, who loves travel, I find it rewarding to have helped so many charities in the last 20 years, though I must add there are times on the road when it feels a bit like serving penance!!’

 

SUMMARY

Robin has completed 12 walks in excess of a thousand miles – eight of which were done in honour of Cancer Charities.

Longest walk – 4,000 miles around Great Britain completed in 125 days.

4 Walks over 2,000 miles.

A Walk around the Kingdom (England).

The Barmy Army Walk (Cricket Road Show Tour of the Country).

Cape Reigna to the Bluff  (New Zealand)

A Walk across the Continent (Ireland/Mediterranean).

1992 – 2002

In the first decade Robin walked 11,500 miles.

8 walks for charity (Cancer Research and Care).

From 1998-2002,

Robin has written/Published 4 books.

2002 -2012

Robin completed 13,300 miles.

10 walks in honour of Cancer Research and Hospice Care.

1 Walk for Mbekweni Township in South Africa.

In this last decade he has written/published 14 books.

 

VOLUNTEER WORK OVERSEAS

SOUTH AFRICA

Working with Merwe Genis, the Barmy Army and the Cape Cricket Academy, Robin’s goal is to help raise funds for youth cricket in the Western Cape. ‘As a founding member of the Barmy Army I hope we can hold charity cricket games at the Provincial ground (Boland Park) on future tours to raise funds for the township (Funds can be raised from match fees/entrance to the ground). Our coaches from Oundle Cricket Club have been instrumental in helping Merwe realise his goal and our concerns now lie with maintenance and support from public donations to ensure youth cricket has a future in South Africa. I hope to be walking to raise awareness before the next England tour takes place when we will set up a Trust for cricket equipment.’ A section dedicated to Mbekweni will be posted on the new website later this year- this will include News Archives -2010.

 

NEW ZEALAND

Working as a volunteer for the New Zealand Cancer Society gave me a great opportunity to spend the summer season as a National Fundraising Campaigner walking the length of the country to promote the charity and help them raise millions of dollars.

To celebrate my anniversary I hope to return to New Zealand over the next twelve months (December/January) to walk the West Coast of the South Island in honour of the Cancer Society. We will initiate our fundraising campaign in Otago which will be supported by Pete Donaldson from Dunedin.

For more details contact:

For details about the New Zealand Cancer Society: click on Cancer Charities

A section dedicated to Robin’s charities will be included in the new website.

When available, the website will enable you to follow Robin’s Travels, or read archive footage about expeditions go to NEWSLETTERS; also scroll down the main page for recent activities.

OTHER ORGANISATIONS

Barmy Army – as a passionate cricketer, Robin has occasionally combined cricket and walking, representing the Barmy Army on a couple of occasions when he was able to raise valuable awareness and several thousand pounds for hospice care and research. His work with the Barmy Army also includes the fundraising initiative he has helped to set up for Mbekweni Township in Paarl, South Africa.

FUTURE CHARITY WALKS

New Zealand -South Island Walk – the Cancer Society of New Zealand.

Australia – Sydney to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road – ‘Movember Challenge’.

USA – Mexico to Canada – Cancer Research.

South Africa – Namibia to the Wine lands – Mbekweni Township.

FUTURE PILGRIMAGES

Pilgrimages serve as excellent training/character-building walks that embolden the spirit and mind.

Having completed Southern Europe (France, Spain, Catalonia and Portugal), Robin will continue to challenge himself on the Continent, walking Northern France, (the war graves), Belgium, Holland, Denmark and other countries in the EEC.

Discover more when Robin launches his new website where you can also download titles from EBOOKS on the opening page.

 DAIRY OF WALK

CORNWALL TO OUNDLE (Scheduled from April 2012)

Land’s End to St Ives

Sunny start, leaving the famous sign post around midday as all seemed quiet at Land’s End. The A30 was less accommodating with traffic looming at every corner though I was able to tick off the small communities safely enough as I made my way to Penzance. The centre of town was a busier episode with Market Jew Street rammed with tourists making the most of the holiday period. Beyond the town I walked the Gulval Road through Nancledra and Halsetown which was probably the shortest route to St Ives. On arrival at the Backpackers in St Ives I realised the Easter tourists were already in occupation as the narrow lanes became barely accessible. In the evening the pubs were lively too, though I was able to relax and enjoy a couple of pints before retiring.

St Ives to Carharrack

It was a wet and windy start as I made my way along the coast path through Carbis Bay and Lelant. Leaving the cliffs at Lelant Golf Course, I passed St Uny Church and a followed a lane into Hayle where I had a coffee at my friend Bunny’s Café. She took a sponsor form off me and from there I used the Cornish Way to Camborne which took in Gwinear, Carnell Green and Penponds. At Camborne I grabbed a pasty and continued by road through Tuckingmill, Pool and eventually Redruth. From here I used the Gwennap Pilgrimage to reach Carharrack.

Carharrack to Bodmin Parkway

Today was awful with heavy rain interspersing the sunny spells. Commencing along the Portreath Tramroad I had a reasonable passage to King Harry Ferry and once across the water I walked part of Route 3 as far as Caerhays. Then taking a country lane I walked to Palmassick and St Ewe where I photographed the lovely church and inn. The next stage continued along a busy road to the Heligan Gardens where I located a cycle track which led to Pentewen Holiday camp. From here I followed the river into St Austell. On leaving town I had a brief encounter with the Eden Project as the trail continued into Luxulyan Valley. The woodlands sheltered me from the heavy rain though eventually gave way to the country lanes which I followed to Lanlivery. Climbing the hills towards Bodmin I struggled against headwind and hale which later turned to torrential rain. It was quite dark as I embarked on the final miles for Bodmin and the road section was hazardous as water swept towards Lanhydrock. At the National Trust Building I turned right and followed the cycle route to Bodmin Parkway to conclude a rather abysmal day on the road.

Bodmin Parkway to Launceston

Resuming the journey I made my way to the top of Bodmin Moor and followed the Copper Trail through St Neot and the neighbouring villages as far as Tregadillet. The countryside was interspersed with old copper mines which were generally appealing to the many explorers I saw throughout the day. On reaching Tregadillet I camped at Brenda’s site and visited the Eliot Arms where I enjoyed supper and a couple of pints. This was the first inn I had stayed at when beginning my campaign as a charity walker way back in 1992 – thankfully it had changed little.

Launceston to Okehampton

Leaving around nine I walked into town and had coffee with Nick Crawshaw an old pal from School days and ex-native of Oundle. We had a good chat and after parting I set off along the old A30 to Lifton. It was an arduous day though thankfully there were opportunities to stop. The full journey was only 24 miles and yet I did not reach the Hostel at Okehampton until around 7pm. Once I was settled I managed to get fish & Chips for supper which was later washed down with a bottle of wine to end the day.

Okehampton to Tiverton

It was a lovely hostel set beside the railway station which was an added attraction and no doubt popular in summer months when it runs services between Meldon and Exeter. From here I walked into town and located my route for the day along the B3215 on the edge of Dartmoor.

Initially I enjoyed a good start along the Crediton Road passing the old railway line on a couple of occasions. No trains today but there were some decent views all around and at Bow I was able to use a quieter country lane via Coleford which gave respite from speeding traffic. Stopping at Crediton I managed a snack before heading off on the Tiverton Road which required a couple of hours intense concentration. Teatime traffic sped past at alarming speed yet thankfully I made my ground before nightfall and was fortunate enough to locate a guest house on Bridge Street which happened to be next to a Wetherspoons inn. Great – steak for supper!

Tiverton to Taunton

Using the Great Western Canal I enjoyed the morning session, though there were occasions when I got lost trying to pick up old sections of the route. As the afternoon drifted on I used the back roads to reach Wellington by which time my feet were very sore. It was a struggle walking to Taunton and on finding a Travel Inn I felt as though I didn’t want to press on any further. There were no vacancies here but they let me camp in the grounds so I was able to get warm and enjoy a meal in the restaurant.

Taunton to the Pound Inn, Wells

Leaving in the shadow of rain, I made my way out of the city and onto the A38/A361 to Glastonbury. The weekend traffic was intense and there were only a few villages to break up the monotony of the road. I stopped at the Cancer Research shop at Glastonbury for a photo which would commemorate 20 years of service to the charity campaign. Beyond here it was a laboured affair which saw me limp to the outskirts of Wells where I was allowed to camp in the pub yard at the Pound Inn and at least enjoyed good company, food and ale to wrap up the day.

Wells to the Wheatsheaf Inn (nr)Bath

It was desolate in Wells – every one must have been at church with the exception of those admiring the cathedral. It was wonderful to see the cathedral which probably ensures Wells remains the smallest city in England. Moving on I followed the old Bristol road almost to Bath stopping 5 miles short so as to stay at the Wheatsheaf owned by Ash who has become a good friend of Chris Mee and Jo who I know from Oundle. We all arranged to meet up and after a steak we enjoyed a few ciders. After Chris and Jo left, I kept the fire stoked up and bedded down for the night. Ash went home and left me to mind the inn; he has been busy renovating the place and has suffered some long days getting the place up to scratch.

The Wheatsheaf to Wootton Basset

After a full English breakfast with Ash and the chef, I bade farewell and was on my way to Bath (which was appropriately wet) – first joining the A4 and then following the canal towpath into the city centre. It seemed a long trek to the outskirts where I followed the A4 into Wiltshire; first passing Box Tunnel and later Chippingham which I reached around 4.30pm. The next stage along the Lyneham Road was a hazardous, wet episode and I was glad to divert to a country lane which led to Wootton Basset. Despite good progress I did not make it to the town much before dark and was glad to get a room at the Crown Inn. Later the landlady cooked me egg and chips and I was able to dry my kit and enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Wootton Basset to Shipton (Lamb Inn)

After a good breakfast my first objective was to bypass Swindon by walking first to Purton and then Cricklade. Stopping at Cricklade I enjoyed some milk and a sandwich and then embarked on a long section of the Thames footpath to Lechlade. This was a long, drawn out affair as the river meandered across miles of pastures and meadows with little interaction with village life until the final two miles of the journey. On arriving at Lechlade I was astonished how late it was- 3.30pm! I still had Burford to encounter and a chunk out of the Chipping Norton section too. Soldiering on with sore feet I made reasonable time to Burford and continued from there along the A361 to Shipton where, at the point of dusk, I camped at the cricket club, courtesy of the ground staff, and retired to the Lamb Inn for supper.

Shipton to Thorpe Mandeville (Northants)

It was a rush to decamp in the pouring rain though I was able to shelter my gear under the pavilion until ready to go. The roads were flooded on both sides today making my passage to Chipping Norton a torrid affair. Once in town I stopped for coffee and went to the bank to cash a traveller’s cheque. Continuing out of town a chap pulled up to enquire whether I had seen a young lad wondering the busy road. He would have stuck out like a sore thumb on a day such as this which could only have been savoured by a madman! It was dreadful all day and quite hazardous along the winding wet road. I made it to Banbury by 3pm and was glad of a meal at Wetherspoons. After a hot drink I made my way along the thoroughfare accompanied by an Asian lad who helped me find a better road for the evening walk into Northamptonshire. I was grateful for his help and after parting I used the Overthorpe Road to cross the border. From here I walked to Middleton Cheney where a local lady escorted me across the fields and onto the Thorpe Mandeville Road. With the help of a few more locals I was able to locate the appropriate footpaths across the agriculture to access the village and the idyllic Three Conies Inn. The landlord was very kind allowing me to camp and giving me a nice beef stew to warm me up. I chatted until closing time, drying off the wet kit whilst enjoying good company. We all hoped that one day my Oundle Pilgrimage would extend this far to the boundaries of Northampton where we would endeavour to support our local charities.

Thorpe to Northants Casuals/Nene Way

Setting off after coffee at the inn, I continued my quest along the Helmdon Road stopping for snacks at the grocer store in Sulgrave. It was a slow painful journey as I ticked off the villages en route which included Helmdon, Wappenham and Abthorpe. Stopping at a Macdonald’s by the main road junction, I had a burger and tea before heading into Towcester. Beyond the town I walked a footpath beside the A43 as far as Blisworth where I continued along the old Northampton Road. I had slowed right down by now with a badly swollen ankle and formidable blisters which hurt on every step. By nightfall I had followed the Nene Way out of town to Northampton Casuals Rugby Club who were kind enough to let me camp on their ground and join them in the bar. I had a meal later and retired to a warmer night under canvas.

Northants to Oundle

Setting off to the tune of the morning chorus, I now had a fair chance of reaching Oundle today. The journey was not without pain, becoming a laboured affair along cycle routes and river bank as far as Wellingborough. From the Embankment the Nene path saw me clear of towns for a while and beyond Irchester I followed the old Nene Railway track all the way to Thrapston. By the time I entered town I was ‘wasted’- barely moving and caused enough concern for Gordon Marsdon (old cricket pal) to pull up and ask if I needed a lift! I explained my predicament and he praised my effort wishing me well for the trip to Oundle. Suffering from exhaustion prompted me to seek food and administer medical aid to my feet which were now throbbing. Amazingly, once on my feet I was like a new man and marched the last 8 miles along the main road in less than 2 hours reaching Oundle before nightfall. What an epic! My ankle was the size of a tennis ball but I still limped to the pub for a meal and a pint!

Online Giving Page: www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore2

More pictures available on facebook (plus Robin Moore’s Walking For Charity Page)

 

EBOOKS

Titles available include:

Walking the Garden Route

The Camino Portuguese

Robin Moore’s Australia Walk

Robin Moore’s Barmy Army Walk

Robin Moore’s Great Britain Challenge Vol.1

A Pilgrim’s Journey

Coast-to-Coast of the British Isles vol.1

Oundle Walks

The Cornish Way Walking Guide

The Portreath Tramroad

NEW TITLES (Available now at Trek-Kits/Oundle School Bookshop)

Titles based on the Nene Valley.
The Oundle Pilgrimage Walk
The Oundle Pilgrimage Cycle Guide
The Oundle Pilgrimage Family Guide
A Pub Walk in the Nene Valley

Titles based in Cornwall
The Gwennap Pilgrimage
The Cornwall Pilgrimage (by Spring)

THANK YOU FOR YOUR EXCELLENT SUPPORT OVER TWO DECADES

GOD BLESS YOU ALL!

PILGRIMAGE TO YPRES – April 2013

WALKING IN HOLLAND AND BELGIUM (Finishing at Ypres)
DAY 1. EINDOVER TO POSTEL – 26km

Heading off along the N123 in Holland

Revisiting Europe at War in 1914, I endeavoured to walk from Eindover in Holland to Ypres in Belgium as my next expedition around the continent.
Starting at the Airport on arrival at 9am, I walked along the cycle routes away from the city via Veldhoven. I got confused with the town layout at times and in fact walked in the opposite direction until a lady set me back on course. Fortunately the locals were kind enough to provide good directions to the N123 my chosen route for the first 2 days of my walk. Having walked through a park I was able to join the road at Steensel and after crossing a road bridge I was able to keep to the cycle route as far as Eersel. Later I followed a forest route frequented by joggers and some cyclists and after a few miles I crossed the border into Belgium.
To celebrate I went for a coffee at a restaurant close by; here I spoke to a couple of German travellers who were cycling in the area. There were many routes crossing the forest here and the whole region contained cycle paths on each side of the road.

The Abbey Shop at Postel

Making good progress I arrived at Postel around 5pm and after enquiring at an inn about camping the landlord suggested I went to the Abbey to see if Father Nicolas could help. This I did and the father was very kind offering a bed and meals for my stay here at Postel. There was a group of Nuns here from Gwent on a Bible Study for 4 days and later we enjoyed supper together. The duty father spoke good English as did one of the visiting men also staying at the Abbey. They were all very kind and keen to hear of my travels in Europe particularly those to Santiago which I completed in 2006/07. It was a lovely peaceful place with the tranquillity broken harmoniouslyy by the melodic chimes of the church bells. There were deer grazing in the grounds and a shop nearby which sold produce made here at the abbey. Before retiring I returned to the inn to thank the landlord for his good advice and help. It was one of the best places I have ever stayed at and I was grateful for a good night’s rest having forfeited sleep yesterday to obtain an early flight this morning.

DAY 2. POSTEL TO NOORDERWIK – 42km

Having enjoyed a good breakfast to get me on my way I said my farewells to the nuns and thank you to the Father before passing through the grounds one last time as I strode off in search of the N123 and my next day’s walk in Belgium. What an adventure! Soon I was crossing a canal at the next town called Retie and as the morning evolved the sun brought temperatures of 22 degrees. I stopped for coffee at Kastererlee and despite a blister made good progress from here to the larger province of Herentals. This was a complicated section and after receiving instructions from a young group at a nearby garage, I continued along the cycle path which followed the main roads where traffic was bound for Antwerp and Lier. I could have followed the river bank to Lier but in the end opted for a village route via Morkoven. Arriving at the next village around 6pm, I decided to make use of the local campsite as there were not too many facilities along the way. I was told that camping is forbidden here in Belgium which sounds a bit stronger than ‘no tents please!’ Any way after paying the owner 9euros I had secured a night under the stars and once set up I returned to the centre for a meal and a drink at the local pub where the lovely English-speaking maid told of her desire to travel to New Zealand. On this subject I was highly qualified to give her a few tips and after an interesting hour I retired to a much-earned rest.

DAY 3. NOORDERWIK TO MERCHTEM – 58km

Starting early, I continued my quest which would hopefully cover about 60km as far as the town of Merchtem. The first part of the day took in the smaller villages including Heist-op-den-Berg and later I joined the N15 where I negotiated Putte and later the busy large town of Mechelen. Wandering through the pedestrian centre I was able to admire the beautiful citadel and religious buildings and stopping at a café I was able to enjoy a conversation with a local lady who also advised on the best route out of town. It was actually very straight forward and on continuing along the main street to the railway crossing brought a natural exit from the place. After passing over a bridge I stopped for some bread and cheese by the river at Hornbeek where a few cyclists sped past following the path beside the bank. It was nearing teatime and I noticed a greater surge of traffic as I continued my walk through the villages of Lorderzeel and Steenhuffel; later a young lad explained where I could buy some food. By 9pm I had cleared the town of Merchtem and making my last call at a local shop where I was able to buy my supper. The girl was Asian and spoke excellent English explaining she had a sister from Birmingham who she visits once a year. She also gave me some bread and told where it would be safe to camp without intrusion.
Just beyond the railway I located a paddock and the rough ground where she suggested I camped; it was great and even my neighbours – a couple of horses added their voice of approval!

DAY 4. MERCHTEM TO WATEGEM – 62km

Rising early it was a touch misty as I left the railway behind and continued my journey along the N211 to Aalst. It was raining at this stage and I was a bit confused as to the junction to take for the N46 which was my route to Oudenaarde. Fortunately I was able to obtain directions at a café and continued my walk as far as Burst where I sat and enjoyed a yogurt and banana. This was destined to be another long enduring affair that would take me beyond dusk once more and so I did not hang around long. Most of the places from here were substantial and so I was able to enjoy a coffee along the way as I passed through Oombergen, Hundelgem; finally arriving at Oudenaarde around 6pm. It was quite a laboured affair passing through the town and once more having to locate the appropriate exit route. It was pleasant enough walking to Wortegem where roadworks at least stemmed the flow of traffic. Dusk was approaching as I trekked through the farmland broken by tiny communities that flickered like candles in the night. On nearing a forest in pitch black I looked for an opening where I could find a place to camp and by 9.30pm I found a suitable spot at the end of a riding. I could see a house in the distance near to what appeared to be an equestrian centre; at this moment in time all I needed was a few hours rest. Boy that was a tough day!

DAY 5. WATEGEM TO YPRES – 44km

Starting at 5am I rolled up a very wet tent and took to the road immediately. I negotiated a tricky section to the N43 but once on course I continued into Kortrijk where the town was still in the process of waking up on this sunny Saturday morning. At least I managed to get a coffee and from here had another tricky section to the outskirts of town where I followed the river path to Werelgem; from here the N8 saw me to Menen and Ypres Street which brought about the last act of this event.

As I walked the final outposts (last 20km) of the journey remnants of the Great War began to dominate the countryside and as Ypres came into view so did the grave stones of the men who fell protecting her nearly 100 years ago. There was a museum built  by a trench on my right containing artefacts from the front line (probably worth millions); opposite lie the unknown graves of warriors who fought there. Further on to the left is Hill 62 where the Canadians fought a do or die battle only metres from the town. Finally my pilgrimage reaches its conclusion at the Menin Gate where I attended the Last Post. Later that evening I was joined by an Australian Vietnam War Vet called Andy and a few tourists from his home land also visiting the battlefields. One guy called Mark had been taken to a nearby farm by his tour guide and introduced to the land owner whose grandfather had fought alongside his own in one of those significant battles.

Part of the trench where they died was still intact serving as a poignant reminder of their sacrifice and yet more importantly this final resting place now evokes a sense of pride which two families can at last share. Mark will at least go home with the satisfaction that he had retraced his grandfather’s footsteps to his last moments in battle. It was just one of many fought in this region over a 4-year period and the thousands of names of unfound soldiers at the Menin Gate make it the most sacred place on Earth to a British soldier.

It was a special evening and after saying farewell we promised to return for the anniversary parade of 2014. Shortly after I retired to my tent for one last night under canvas before travelling across France to the ferry port of Roscoff and ultimately, on Monday, the journey home to Cornwall.

                                                                                                                       

WALKING NEW ZEALAND 2013

RECENT WALK AND SPRING  NEWS UPDATE

Reaching Milton on the East Coast a month after setting off from Christchurch via Arthur’s Pass and the West Coast of the South Island, NZ.

‘FIGHTING CANCER ON FOOT WITH THE CROWN WORLD WIDE WANDERERS’
Robin’s latest 1200 km walk finished successfully with the final laps around Forsyth Barr Stadium completing the campaign for Relay for Life. Since 26th January, Robin has been promoting Relay for Life in New Zealand by walking across the Southern Alps and West Coast of the South Island. He has also been raising funds for Cancer Research UK and has planned another walk for the charity in April (see justgiving page below). On the 9th March Mr Moore joined the Crown World Wide Wanderers for Relay for Life in Dunedin where we successfully raised over $2000 for the Cancer Society of New Zealand. We are anticipating the combined effort of the 108 teams involved at the Forsyth Stadium will have collected over $230,000 in Dunedin for the charity.

ROBIN MOORE’S NEW ZEALAND CHARITY EXPEDITION
This story follows Robin Moore’s charity expedition of the South Island’s scenic West Coast and the Southern Alps. The journey first crosses Arthur’s Pass on the coast-to-coast between Christchurch and Greymouth; then follows the coast road to Haast before encountering rain forests, gorges and lakes which make up the unique terrain around Wanaka and Queenstown. Heading back to the South Coast via New Zealand’s gold-mining towns, the walk draws to a close along old railway tracks, river trails and Highway 6 set against a green hilly backdrop, finally concluding at the city of Dunedin.

THE WALK

PHASE 1 – CHRISTCHURCH TO GREYMOUTH (Via Arthur’s Pass)
Commencing 26th January

DAY 1 CHRISTCHURCH TO WEST MELTON -26KM
Feeling jetlagged and somewhat overloaded with equipment, I departed from the Cancer Society and steadily made my way out of the city in the direction of the West Coast highway – Route 73. Stopping at Tower Junction I purchased a charger for my phone and had a sausage sandwich at the Lion’s stall where one of the attendants sponsored me $5 and wished me well for the journey. The hot conditions today were unforgiving as was the weight in my pack which I felt was a few pounds over a comfortable load. It is often hard to know what to take on these types of expeditions and in any case I usually have to carry my entire luggage for the whole trip.
Soon I was beyond the city boundaries and after Hornby my relationship with the road became a quiet, diminutive affair as I made my way to West Melton.  The township comprised of a few houses, garage and tavern with ground space where the landlady let me camp for the night.  It was a social Saturday evening with a few locals watching the races and small groups enjoying their chat; I was simply glad to quench my thirst and have a home-cooked meal and by nightfall I retired to my tent for the first night of many under canvas.
DAY 2 WEST MELTON TO DARFIELD – 25KM

I rose to dull and misty weather though it soon became hot as I slowly made my way along the desolate main road. At a forest junction I stopped to talk to a lady who was on her daily morning walk; she was interested in my travels and we chatted for 10 minutes or more. Continuing in the heat I made it to the next village around noon and stopped for a drink of water at a garage. From here I walked a tough 8km to Darfield where I pitched my tent at the Domain Recreation Ground; later I visited the tavern and enjoyed a roast dinner. After refreshment I went to the shop for some snack food and feeling tired I retired to the shade of the park where I appreciated well earned rest.
DAY 3 DARFIELD TO SPRINGFIELD – 23KM

I woke before sunrise hoping to keep a step ahead of the heat and the first 12km to Waddington went reasonably well. Stopping at the green across from the Sheffield Pie Shop, I watched the Trans Scenic train run past on its way across Arthur’s Pass to Greymouth – my destination at the end of the week if I am lucky enough to survive the heat. Unfortunately there was not any wind in sight and I suffered quite badly with heat exhaustion by the time I reached Springfield. I spoke to a guy at a campsite who gave me some water and on reaching the hotel in town the landlord and his staff were kind enough to let me pitch a tent in the yard where they were developing a backpackers unit. Here one can grasp the impact of the first earthquake that hit Christchurch causing most of the damage to suburban areas and countryside. 10.5km below Darfield the earthquake began – speeding towards Christchurch damaging all that lied in its path. The staff explained the cost of the disaster to them personally and the political issues surrounding the regeneration programme; later they invited me to a barbecue and offered advice on how to cope with Arthur’s Pass in this heat which has now brought about an official drought in the area. With extra food on board I decided to rise at 4am and take a siesta during the middle of the day; the whole pass would have to be split over 3 days which would mean a night or two under the stars.
DAY 4 SPRINGFIELD TO LAKE PEARSON – 40KM

Walking through Arthur’s Pass in 35c.

And so it begins! Leaving in the dark I gave myself a good head start against the formidable heat which would exceed temperatures of 35 degrees. The first testing encounter was a steep section over Porters Pass where the winding road was unrelenting in its ascent. As the journey developed so to did the scenery which was sublime if not surreal and yet welcoming only the call of the wild. Eventually the pass drops to Lakes Lyndon on the left with Coleridge in the distance.  Although the journey offered some respite the mountains remained dominant and later there was an interesting rock formation on the rise above Castle Hill. Stopping at the holiday village of Castle Hill a couple invited me into their cabin for a meal and a cold drink.  They were heading back to Wellington and hinted that they could be at the test match when England tour in March. After an hour of good chat we parted company and I was left again to battle with the heat over Craigeburn with a view to camping at Lake Pearson later tonight. Around teatime I stopped at a small lodge where a pretty young maid served me food and ale. She had come here from Christchurch after the earthquake and I could sense sadness about her as she went on to admit she was unhappy with her life at present. Like many of her age group it is a case of making do until something else comes along and then being able to grab the initiative. After the interval I enjoyed a quiet cooler session, aided by breeze, as I walked down to Lake Pearson where I camped in the company of water fowl.
DAY 5 LAKE PEARSON TO BEALEY LODGE – 34KM

After a breakfast of sardines which I shared with a local water hen I set off in the dark, misty haze which obscured all else but the road. These few hours ensured I made good speed whilst observing the sound of occasional traffic. As the sun rose above the mountains the heat kicked in along the steep unforgiving climbs. Reaching each summit along Arthur’s Pass just ‘blows you a way’ up here and at least the overwhelming scenery becomes an opiate in these exacting times – its difficult to know which will wear out first – my body or my camera! Today I was in good nick and made it to Bealey’s Lodge by lunch time. Here the staff made me most welcome and let me have a cabin for the night. Later I chatted to a family group who gave me a meal and Vicki who works at the inn offered to take some of my equipment back to Christchurch as at present I was carrying too much in this heat. Constant backache and groin strains often meant I couldn’t walk properly nor gather the momentum required to cover a respectable distance. My stop at Bealey’s Lodge turned out to be a lovely experience and I enjoyed a proper rest which would make the difference in tomorrow’s effort.
DAY 6 BEALEY’S LODGE TO JACKSONS – 50KM

Setting off around 6.30am, I made it to Arthur’s before nine and stopped at a cafe for a pie and coffee. Soon the coast-to-coast triathlons will be passing through from Hokitika on a major event which also includes running, cycling and about 60km of kayaking through the pass. Leaving here the scenery around Otira gorge was something to behold and I was in awe of its presence; bottomless terrain beneath timeless bridges and the constant flow of water cascading from the mountains. Stopping at lunchtime at the Otira inn I enjoyed a sandwich and chat to the landlady and another couple who were travelling around the country on holiday. Apart from the inn there was little else here; though in the age of the railway many of the workmen stayed in Otira as men from all corners of the country flocked to the region to obtain a hard- earned dollar. In those difficult times they would have earned every cent in a dangerous environment where each day was about survival.
From here I stepped up the pace walking the whole session of 20km to Jackson where the cheerful owner of the campsite let me stay for free; I then headed back to the region’s most famous pub where the ladies ensured I was watered and well-fed. I sat for a while enjoying my jug of ale and admiring the wonderful interior of this iconic place which has played an important role in quenching thirst for a century or more.
DAY 7 JACKSONS TO MOANA – 28KM

After a lovely breakfast with a group of Canadian tourists who were very kind in offering me some food, I set off taking the low road. The late start ensured it was a laboured affair and as the day moved on I developed blisters and had trouble walking properly. I stopped first at a fishing lake for a sardine lunch and made a few excursions throughout the afternoon to refill my water bottles. Before setting off on the last 6 km of the day I spent time at a farm where Mr and Mrs Usher invited me into their home for tea and biscuits. I was relieved it was a short session and I made it to Moana, set beside the picturesque Lake Brunner, around 7pm. The lake-side views soon washed away the torment of the day and when I enquired at the pub about camping the night the landlady let me stay in a cabin for free which was a wonderful reward for my day’s toil. I also had a good meal and ale; later I spoke to a young lad called Shaun from Manchester who was on a fishing holiday along the West Coast.
DAY 8 MOANA TO STILLWATER – 24KM

Setting off in what was the closest I’d seen to drizzle so far, I enjoyed the cooler start making short work of the journey to Stillwater; descending into town I passed the cemetery and memorial for the Brunner Mining disaster. Turning right at the bottom of the hill I made my way to the hotel where the landlady was also kind enough to let me use a cabin for the night. It was a busy place and later a stag party arrived to liven things up a bit – they were all just lovely people celebrating the life and times of yesteryear; I also chatted to another Kiwi who was on holiday with his son and some friends from Scotland. By 10pm I retired to my room to watch TV/Rambo as the fading sound of cheerful banter drifted me into slumber.
DAY9 STILLWATER TO GREYMOUTH – 15KM

Rising to the peace and solitude of Sunday, I now embarked on the last section of the coast-to-coast which will see the completion of phase 1. The first hour was a cultural experience visiting the old Brunner Mine Works originated in the 1870’s and developed throughout 19th century. It reopened in the 1920’s and the memorial at Stillwater stands in honour of those who died in that period. Across the water lies Taylorville and the next stop ahead was a motor café at Dobson where I was joined by fisherman Shaun who I met at Moana and who was also walking to Greymouth. Together we walked into town, finishing the day at Greymouth Tourist Centre at the train station where Shaun had enough time to book his trip back to the North Island where he would spend the rest of his holiday with his aunt from Tauranga.
I soon found the campsite at the Domain and promptly entered the pub across the road to celebrate my walk with the locals. Tomorrow will be a new chapter in my journey as I head of down the West Coast to Haast and the pass beyond.
PHASE 2
GREYMOUTH TO HAAST (Via Highway 6)
Commencing from 4th February

DAY 10 GREYMOUTH TO PAROA – 15KM (Total walked)
After decamping quickly during heavy rainfall I made my way to the Cancer Society for a press interview with the Greymouth Star. Then having updated my blog, I walked on to Paroa where the hoteliers let me camp on their land by the railway. The bar maid, Olivia was kind to me and took me back to her place for a shower, clothes wash and later a meal at the inn. It turned out they were all good friends of ex-pat Richard Blakeborough who I knew from Oundle, making our liaison all the more interesting. Tonight the patrons consisted of a group of workers and also a few holiday makers staying at the motel. I stayed only until dusk when I was happy to return to my tent to sleep.
DAY 11 PAROA TO HOKITIKA – 30KM

The 6am freight train to Hokitika was my alarm call today as it thundered through shaking the ground I lay on; I was soon up and packed to make the most of a cooler start on a day which I hoped would yield around 30km. The cool air allowed me to wear more layers rather than carry them for a change and apart from a few litter collectors along the highway I saw only cattle and deer grazing the rich pastures. Later I came across a bridge which was under repair; oddly it also shared its access with the railway. It looked a bit dodgy to say the least and as a car entered I immediately followed behind sprinting all the way to the end - quite scary!
The cafe was closed at Kumara Junction so I continued a few km past the triathlon coast-to-coast start point and stopped for breakfast next to a crash barrier. There was little of interest along the way though it was nice to see the sea and occasionally I’d stop to enjoy some shade beneath a bridge or at a bench in a picnic bay.
8km from Hokitika a lady stopped by to give me some spring water and once in town the landlord of the Pioneer Hotel was kind enough to let me camp in his spacious beer garden. They were a bloody good crowd in the bar and I stayed with them until closing time sharing a beer with Wayne Stuart who was heading back to Australia to work, but also took time out to offer advice on where to stay at Bruce Bay when I arrive there next week.
DAY 12 HOKITIKA TO ROSS – 30KM

The freight train was again my alarm call- just a little later this time but I soon dismantled the tent and pressed on across the bridge now bound for the Gold Town of Ross. I made good ground to Lake Mahinapua where I stopped for a breakfast of sardines and honey. As the journey evolved I enjoyed the scenery largely dominated by forest and the ever-present Southern Alps and to the right was farmland broken by streams and rivers. Stock ranged from deer, cattle, goats and sheep which all seemed alarmed to see me pass by. There was little to get excited about at Ruatapu though I still needed to rest so as to protect my feet from blisters as the day approached its hottest temperatures. By 2pm I had reached the old gold town of Ross where I was offered a camping spot at the old Empire inn – a splendid characterful place in a prime location by a small lake. My only neighbour was Raymond the pub goat, though later another traveller pitched up and camped nearby; he was also heading to Dunedin for the cricket and kindly donated $20 to the Cancer Society.
DAY 13 ROSS TO HARI HARI – 50KM

It was a lovely start at 5.30 am as I bade farewell to Raymond who was also up and ready for another day of maintaining the pub lawn.  Beyond the town the beautiful forest offered protection from the heat as the sun rose over the mountains. I was waved on by road workers and often drivers tooted their horns.  Mid-morning I refilled my water bottles at a farm and later stopped at the Bushman’s Centre where I chatted to the owners – the lady in fact hailed from Lancashire. The lady had an interest in my knee straps which I use to protect my joints from the heavy pack –perhaps her husband could try these to combat his arthritis? Leaving the premises I noted the giant sculptured body of a sand fly which did not bode well for the journey ahead. Walking through Kakapotahi Forest I took pleasure in mimicking the birds which seemed happy to oblige with some rhythmic sounds. The cattle were also vocal but less endearing as they charged along their paddock adjacent to the road. By lunchtime I had reached Lake Ianthe which was a popular location for the campervan fraternity – I also dwelled a while to enjoy a sardine and peanut butter lunch.
The rest of the day dragged on a bit as I trudged over more narrow bridges some had flowing water beneath; others barely a trickle as drought loomed ever close to the West.
Happily I arrived at Hari Hari where the landlady of the Hotel, Penny McCaul made me most welcome inviting to camp and use the facilities; after an update to my diary I went to the bar to order a meal and a jug of Speight’s beer.
DAY 14 HARIHARITO WHATAROA – 30KM

Starting in the mist around 6.30am I enjoyed the forest views and winding roads which were more like a cycle route than a main road. With all the wonderful scenery and panoramic views the region has become a Mecca for photographers and artists. There was barely a place in sight and later I ate my breakfast in a lay by atop the hill overlooking the gorge.
I passed numerous cattle fields and soon the mighty glaciers began to dominate my vision. On reaching Whataroa I stopped at the shop to ask for some sardines; the lady frowned at me and looked at her colleague retorting not too many of them around these parts. In a despairing effort to resolve my plight I ordered fish and chips and a flat white coffee. I fared better at the inn where the landlady who had only been there a month let me stay in a room.  I enjoyed a meal in a lovely pub atmosphere where I felt the warmth of humanity. A pleasant night’s sleep and dry kit for the morning made it all the more a special place.
DAY 15 WHATAROA TO FRANZ JOSEPH – 32 KM

Setting off at 7.15am I powered into the cool air making excellent progress as far as Lake Mapourika where the Lions club where hosting the South Westland Fishing Competition – a 24 hour salmon fishing contest. They were very friendly and invited me for breakfast where we also took photos to mark the occasion; later some young ladies showed me part of the lake which they use for leisure. After returning to the road I met a cyclist who had passed me a few times and knowing about my expedition offered to sort out a place to stay at Makarora later next week. A little further on I was able to look back across the water where I had stood earlier; by now there were plenty of boats afloat around the lake.
Soon I was entering the iconic region known as Franz Joseph where helicopters hovered above the queuing tourists all waiting eagerly for a glimpse of the famous Glacier. My interest lied with shelter and cricket and I was fortunate enough to obtain a camp pitch at the nearby backpackers. Later I cooked a meal with some other travellers from the UK and at the bar watched England beat NZ at 20-20 cricket.
DAY 16 FRANZ JOSEPH TO FOX GLACIER – 24 KM
This was a tough little hike amid steep winding roads which as the heat emerged proved to be quite an ordeal. Throughout the morning I leaned into the mountains, crossing the road to avoid the traffic on the bends and looking for a water supply at the top of each hill. By lunch time I was glad to reach the quaint little refuge of Fox Glacier where the publican let me pitch my tent at his camp site a km or so west of the town. Most of the occupants here were preparing for a climb to Fox Glacier; other holidaymakers were enjoying some culinary treats prepared at the site kitchen. Returning to the inn I enjoyed good ale and food whilst chatting to the cheerful bar staff – one young lady hailed from the UK. I also spoke to another couple camped next to me who told of the journey from Haast to here. They merely re-iterated what I already predicted – there would be minimal facilities on offer for the next few days which were calculated to be the longest of the tour.
DAY 17 FOX GLACIER TO BRUCE BAY – 50KM

It was cool enough when I started at 7am but it rose to a hot temperature by breakfast time. Stopping at a farm for a bite to eat I chatted with there farmer who in fact owned the pub I frequented the night before. Shortly after resuming I met a guy called Nigel from Padstow who was cycling around the world; it was great to see another traveller and exchange stories – hopefully I’ll be in touch again when I’m next in Cornwall. As the day rolled on so did the weather turning wet by afternoon. This was a unique session by the forest where I could hear the roar of the Tasman beyond the trees. Soon the coastline revealed its might adding to the bleakness of a wet day though by the time I reached Bruce Bay the rain had subsided. Following Wayne’s advice from Hokitika, I called at the lodge opposite the village hall, where proprietor John Birchfield was kind enough to let me stay at his cottage where I enjoyed a meal, beer and a good night’s sleep – what a star!
DAY 18 BRUCE BAY TO KNIGHT’S POINT (3KM BEYOND) – 54KM

After thanking John for his kindness I headed off up the road with a spring in my step. First I had to cross a narrow bridge and on the first attempt had to retreat to let a coach go through. Later I met a pair of idiots on the way to work; they pulled up giving me the smart talk about how I should be walking across the forests and not on the road I was about to ask the mouthy driver when he last walked the coast when a fellow worker pulled up and I left them to hopefully have a saner conversation than the 90 seconds of dribble I’d just listened to. Any way these sorts have rarely done anything worthwhile with their own lives so tend to go out their way to put others down – he needs to know why I’m here – after all ‘what comes around goes around’ and he could easily one day find himself the at the wrong end of the deal.
Stopping at the Salmon Cafe I was treated to cake and coffee while manager, Graham, offered to fix my rucksack which had broken under the sheer weight I was carrying. He arranged to track me en route and return it to me once the repair was strong enough. I agreed heading off at amazing speed feeling liberated from the burden I had carried for there last fortnight plus. By the time he caught up with me I had reached Lake Moeraki and was engaging in conversation with some fishermen/women from Wanaka which I hope to reach by the weekend.
After thanking Graham who gave me a salmon sandwich for my supper, I continued uphill to a lodge where the owner seemed a little preoccupied with his conservation duties. He said something about camping at a power station which I never found it despite turning off on a few lanes. Passing over another bridge I was soon hitting the high ground around Knight’s Point. I could not camp here but later met another conservationist analyzing a land slide beyond the point, who gave me advise and also took a few photos of me. By nightfall I had camped in a side lane on descent from the high ground where the rain kept me awake for most of the night.
DAY 19 KNIGHT’S POINT TO HAAST – 21 KM

I did not realize the progress I had made yesterday and by noon I had reached the river ferry site where I spoke to the two ladies who help run the enterprise. Next I was braving the high winds of Haast Bridge as I entered the junction; here the pub owner let me camp on the hotel grounds by the staff section so I could use the facilities. It was a busy little enterprise and soon the bar began to fill with residents settling in for a meal. The food was good and I was able to watch the cricket for most of the evening though my thoughts were never far away from the road as I now began to focus my mind on the long placeless trek through Haast Pass to Lake Wanaka.
PHASE 3 -12 /02 (Haast to Queenstown)

DAY 20 HAAST TO PLEASANT FLAT – 47KM
A cool start gave me great momentum as I began my walk across Haast Pass which was a combination of forest and mountains poking through the misty haze. Before the 1960’s it was pretty much the ‘Wild West’ as there wasn’t even a road here! When one was eventually put in it was literally just a single gravel track linking the west coast to Otago; in those days the only visitors were deer stalkers and fishermen until the 1980’s when the road became sealed allowing modern day traffic passage to the other side. It was a tough world back then and I can tell you it isn’t too easy now on foot with no real towns of substance until reaching Wanaka in roughly 4 days time! On the way through I met a European hiker heading towards Haast; he was tramping around the country for leisure with a view to camping at the township ahead. I also met a European cyclist who was heading up to Greymouth; although yesterday’s head wind had hampered his progress he was heartened by the news that he only had a short distance to his next stopover. I made decent progress covering 47km when I reached the campsite at Pleasant Flat – though I renamed the location ‘Unpleasant Flat’ owing to the population of sand flies here. My neighbour, Todd from the USA, was travelling by car and would be heading back to Christchurch tomorrow to see his girl friend. Whilst conversing he did at least give a valuable insight into how I could walk from Mexico to Canada – one for the future maybe?
DAY 21 PLEASANT FLAT TO  MAKARORA – 37KM
The warmer air today coupled with the sand flies presented a greater challenge across the mountainous terrain. There were tall bridges to cross and steep narrow winding sections to encounter throughout the day; frequently I crossed the road so as to remain visible to the oncoming traffic which largely comprised of camper vans and coaches. The scenery was awe-inspiring accentuated by the powerful cascades tumbling from the mountains and fast-flowing rivers expanding across the pass.  I met a couple of cyclists at a woodland park who had biked down from Cameron where their camper van was parked. They also spent the night with the sand flies at Pleasant Flat and had seen me arrive the previous evening. They had lost a good friend through a cancer related illness and have been supporting the charity for several years since. Later I stopped at the Cameron Camp Site for a peanut butter sandwich whilst enjoying the views of the road I had just walked. For the remainder of the journey I followed the trail of dead opossums, and although I had seen numerous signs for feral poison control, evidence suggested that the road’s cleansing powers were efficient enough. It was 3.30pm when I reached the campsite at Makarora where I was welcomed by the receptionist who let me camp for free and later I ate and drank in the bar. I can tell you I had the biggest roast beef dinner imaginable – I didn’t know whether to eat it or climb it! In a region renown for its mountain ranges and challenging pursuits ‘Everest Meals’ could easily catch on here as a marketing slogan; though I managed to eat the lot, drink a jug of ale and watch England win the 20-20 series – all good stuff!
DAY 22 MAKORORA TO LAKE HAWEA – 49KM
It was always going to be a ‘tough day at the office’ with nearly 50km to walk in testing heat – especially when accompanied by those blasted flies! At least I was ready for it, stopping to enjoy a coffee at the Makorora Township cafe before powering into the morning stretch which exposed me to panoramic views of Lake Wanaka to my right. Stopping very briefly at a picnic area close to the lake, I waged a brutal war with the sand flies who were trying to steal my sardines; then in despair I marched off towards Lake Hawea. There was a break from the water initially and as the road descended eastwards views of Lake Hawea came into focus. A Swiss group took photos of me above the lake and after I followed the winding course for several hours. I spoke to a guy and his son fishing nearby and stopped at a picnic area to bathe my feet in the lake. The water was crystal clear and as I sat mesmerized by its tranquility a small group in a boat drifted into the shore. They were barely on shore 5 minutes and the vessel was hooked up and away up the lane for home. That was my cue to get going too having dwelled for almost half an hour. The pleasantries of the lake helped to energise me and I picked up a good step as far as a small farming community. I stopped to chat with the local farmer who drained off some water for me from a nearby stream and to my delight told me I was only 4 km from Lake Hawea Campsite. As the cool evening air blew across the water I came across Mike and Lorraine’s Campsite at the foot of Lake Hawea which was a welcome relief after some tough miles. I was tired, thirsty and had severely cracked feet; hardly a surprise after treading 1000km of tarmac in the last month! Luckily my hosts were very kind and ensured I was watered and fed; I shared a pizza meal with them and their friends, Roger and Glenda Baldwin from Picton. Later we had tea and a pasta supper before I retired to a much-needed sleep. My day was complete thanks to a little help from some big-hearted people. Bless them – they were brilliant!
DAY 22 HAWEA TO WANAKA – 15KM

Today was short in comparison to those of last week; it was 15km to Wanaka and that left only Queenstown ahead as my last major staging post in the journey. On reaching the popular holiday town which is situated on the Southern end of Lake Wanaka I found a lovely camp site called Wanaka Lakeview where the lovely manageress, Kelly Cambell let me pitch for the night. The town is the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park comprised of remote wilderness, awe-inspiring mountains and beautiful river valleys. The park forms part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site and is often referred to as a walkers’ paradise! Although I felt a touch rundown I still took a walk around the town and even watched some of the one day international – didn’t end well I’m afraid!!
DAY 23 WANAKA TO CARDRONA HOTEL – 25KM
Rising early I felt unwell due to heat exhaustion incurred from a hot and strenuous week, so my first stop was the chemist to obtain a packet of rehydration powders. After saying farewell to Kelly, I set off into the stifling heat which was already over 30 degrees without a murmur of breeze. Passing only road workers I endured the heat until noon when I stopped for lunch of boiled egg and whole meal bread. I had only the minimal amount of water for this journey and was relieved when I finally reached the Cardrona Hotel. Cade Thornton, the new manager of this impressive little palace, was kind enough to offer me a room in order to recuperate properly. In the evening I enjoyed a lovely steak meal and later I was able to update my diary and enjoy a chat to one of the locals who is also employed by the hotel. We talked about many topics – often joking about the state of the world; later Pete Donaldson phoned to give me an itinerary for the rest of the journey which would help to make my final days a bit more comfortable. Tomorrow I would be staying with his friend called Rod from Arrowtown. So far to date on this tour the Cadrona had been the most appealing place – almost iconic in appearance and a great place to quench thirst; its endearing character and charm made it a good location for those who prefer to relax in the basement of New Zealand free of adrenalin.
DAY 24 CARDRONA HOTEL TO ARROWTOWN/QUEENSTOWN – 50KM

I felt rejuvenated after my lovely stay at Cardrona and a good breakfast set me for the challenge of Crown Range – the highest point in the region. It was cool and I was in good nick so the winding undulation did not pose a serious threat today, though I was thirsty on reaching the summit – boy it was windy too. After a few photos and a chat to a Swiss lady who had watch me ascend to these great heights, I started my descent to the next ridge where I shared an apple with an American lady cycling to Wanaka – she would have got value for money on this route!
At Arrow Junction I had to make a 20 km excursion into Queenstown the capital of the West Coast founded predominantly from adrenalin sports – this is the most popular tourist destination on the South Island. Nearing the end a press correspondent called Olivia met me en route for an interview and photo for the Otago Times. Bungi Jumping was not part of my plan today so on conclusion of my interview I walked the final 3km into town and promptly retired to the Pig and Whistle for refreshment.
PHASE 4 – 20/02 (Queenstown to Dunedin)
DAY 25 ARROWTOWN TO BANNOCKBURN HOTEL – 52KM

After my journey to Queenstown I returned to Rod’s Place at Arrowtown which was once famous for its gold mining as was the whole region I would pass through today. It largely evolved when the great glaciers carved out the Wakatipu Basin and after gold was discovered in the 1860’s the Otago Council invited Chinese miners came here to make their fortunes. Sadly none of them made it back home though remnants of their settlement bear witness to the shortness of life. During the 1980’s the area was partially restored as a tribute to them becoming one of the region’s most visited sites.  The first stage of my journey took me back to the Arrowtown junction and a few km on I passed the Crown Range turn off from yesterday’s walk and once again I was into a new day with another 42km to reach my destination.
Stopping at a bungi bridge I watched a dive before 3 coach loads of Chinese engulfed the centre making any further photography inaccessible; from here I pressed on to the Gibbston Winery where I stopped for a break. As I was drinking my coffee, Manager Greig came over and shook my hand having seen me walking to Queenstown and again today at Arrow Junction. He was also kind enough to provide me lunch for the day ahead.
Beyond the ripening vineyards it became an arduous day too along the winding Kawarau Gorge where water was hard to obtain – my main source came from a power station where I sat and ate my lunch. I consumed over 10 litres of water throughout the day and some fruit from a stall which the proprietor gave me; she also offered advice on how to reach the Bannockburn Hotel which was situated east of Cromwell. Another man gave $2 to the cause and at an hotel complex 2km along the Cromwell Road I received further instructions to Bannockburn. These I followed to the letter and made it to the hotel on the top of the hill. Hoteliers Tim and his wife where at a meeting but had made provision for me in their office room and I enjoyed a nice supper before resting.
DAY 26 BANNOCKBURN HOTEL TO ALEXANDRA – 35KM

I enjoyed a lovely breakfast with Tim and a good chat about his plans to develop the camp site over the coming months. I thanked him for his hospitality and as the cool air greeted me I descended from the pub garden to a landscape of forest and lake. Soon I was walking through the thriving business community of Cromwell. In the early days for those hoping to strike gold Cromwell was the nearest place of civilization; situated between the Rivers Clutha and Kawarau the town developed into a close-knit community living through the gloomy days of economic depression emerging to the much brighter social climate of today.  Leaving Cromwell the wind proved a dominant force as I crossed the Lake Dunstan to continue the next phase of the journey via the Cromwell Gorge. The whole morning was taken up in head wind above the water which finally culminated at Clyde Dam built on the Clutha River between 1982 -1993 becoming New Zealand’s third largest hydro-electric dam. Leaving the highway was a great relief after toiling against the wind and relentless traffic; then reaching the village I had a coffee at a bistro and stopped for a chat at the pub next door; both premises were kind enough to donate to the cancer society and boost our fund for Relay for Life.
Having left the road behind for the remainder of the day I was now able follow a cycle route on the opposite bank. The trail was a great escape from the highway and offered less wind allowing me to enjoy a pleasant afternoon beside the river. Forming a good alternative to the popular Otago Central Rail Trail this route crosses the Clutha and runs approximately 12km to Alexandra. The trail followed a steep bank for most of the way and often the river was obscured by woodlands. Only saw a few cyclists en route – I guess those I saw had just finished work and later I watched a party of canoeists testing their skills in the water. Soon I was crossing the   Here I was lucky to stay with friends Dave and Elsie who gave me a lovely meal and showed valuable insight into tomorrow’s long journey before I retired for the day.
DAY 27 ALEXANDRA TO MILLER’S FLAT -60KM

Banking and media duties incurred a late start as I returned to the bridge where I rejoined my route along H8 to Roxburgh which would take in the Fruitlands named when poplar trees were planted near small settlements established in the World Wars. Ironically the fruit trees planted here too never survived and so in reality it was fruitless in both title and content. For most of the time there was little here to stir my mind other than traffic bound for the weekend concert; at times this was a bit hairy given the roads winding/undulating formation. At least I enjoyed a stop at the iconic Speargrass Inn – a beautiful historic building established in 1869 and restored after fire damage into bistro and lavish en suite hotel which also caters for functions. I was delighted when the landlady gave me a nice lunch, and in between serving customers, we managed to enjoy a good conversation with a bit of roadside humour.
Continuing a bit further I also came across another hotel which looked deserted and lonely – there was no one at home here which prolonged my quest to obtain water. Walking another 10km I came across Roxburgh Township where I stopped downhill at a café. Whilst relaxing with a coffee I had a chat to the post lady who had seen me walking earlier; she was also a cook and was due to set off for a shift at a hotel in Roxburgh. She tooted as she drove passed me 2km up the road and from here I made good time to the town reaching the centre by 5.45pm. Continuing into the cooler evening session I faced speeding traffic which often took the white line without giving me any consideration at all- I guess the concert is more important than humanity!
I had believed Miller’s Flat was only about 10km from Roxburgh but after 2 hours of serious power-marching through the Teviot Valley with mile upon mile of orchards more befitting of the title of Fruitlands, I asked a shopkeeper at Ettrick how far to my destination. She replied saying ‘It’s only just down the hill’ which turned out to be another 6 km! Reaching the pub before dusk the landlady got me a beer to soothe my weary soul (and the soles of my feet!); half an hour later I went to Paul Moody’s house for a lovely lamb dinner and a few more beers – it all finished well and I was grateful for the support I received on this long hard perilous slog across the Fruitlands.
DAY 28 MILLER’S FLAT TO BEAUMONT – 27KM

After bidding Paul and his little girl farewell I had a coffee with the landlady at the inn who was also kind enough to make me a sandwich. Afterwards I walked back over the bridge and continued my journey along the Millennium Track which was mostly unsealed. For most of the way I was near the river with only a couple of houses and a sheep station to break up the journey. Of poignant interest were the lonely graves – an anonymous grave at Horse Shoe Bend which could have been an 1860’s miner point. In 1903 a local man, William Rigney added a head stone with the words ‘Some one’s Darling lies buried here.’ Rigney died in 1912 and was buried next to the miner with his own epitaph that read ‘The Man Who Buried Some One’s Darling.’
Continuing on I passed a sheep station, a couple of camp sites and took time out to relax by the lake. Only a few cars drove by leaving a trail of dust on each occasion but with little other commotion I crossed the road bridge and walked into Beaumont at 3pm. Alison Mills, the landlady of the Beaumont Hotel and Holiday Park was happy to let me camp for free and after completing my washing, diary and meal I felt relaxed enough to watch a bit of one day cricket featuring the decider between England and NZ. It was all happening here as a sheep-sheering contest was under way – the beer flowed freely all night into the early hours and the poor chef must have worked his fingers to the bone!
DAY 29 BEAUMONT TO LAWRENCE – 20KM
Having woke the tired landlady who had barely slept after her sheep shearing contest, I persuaded her to organise a cooked breakfast which she was kind enough to do for me along with a flat white coffee. She went on to explain that she expected another busy day with people returning from the concert; she also said it was essential to keep hosting events in order to make a living. Fair play – I told a tale of woe regarding some of my native pubs which have gone under due to the harsh winds of Austerity blown in by recession. Soon I was on my way again using the constructed sections of Millennium Track which follow the road for most of the way. Apart from a few hills it was a moderate task and there was less to bother me in the early part of the morning. Around 1pm I reached the Prospectors Café/Motor Camp and Tavern at Lawrence where I was offered a room by the kind owner. The premises were aptly named given that this was Otago’s first gold mining town in the Tuapeka District when industry started back in 1861. It soon became the gateway to the gold fields and largest community in the country peaking with a population of 11,500; even now some of the well-preserved buildings of this little town still emanates that bygone age.
DAY 30 LAWRENCE TO MILTON – 40KM

Starting in the mist I made the most of the cool air building good momentum as the morning evolved. Miles rolled by in an immense blizzard of commuter traffic though the scenery became intoxicating as the mist rose above the green and pleasant landscape. It was good to see the transition from stern mountain ranges to green hilly pastures reminiscent of the ‘old country’. Trekking through Manuka Gorge the temperature rose incurring perspiration and thirst. Unfortunately there were no townships here but after stopping at a picnic area I found a house selling organic produce where a lady filled my water bottles. On departure Pete and Michelle pulled up with more water – when it rains it pours! They at least relieved me of my rucksack which enabled me to up the mileage to 7km per hour. By 2.30pm I had reached Milton, the heart of the Bruce Ward, in the Clutha District and yet with a modest population of 2000. In just a week I had walked from Central Otago to the south coast and Tokomairiro Plain with less than 100km of Highway 1 to walk. It was certainly a long town and I was able to break up the journey with a coffee and photos taken by Michelle and Pete. After a break they guided me to Milton’s Old Peoples Home where Michelle had organised a night stopover for me. At the supper table was a guy called Tony who hailed from Lancaster and another lady who served me tea. After a good chat I visited the pub and met a gardener called Tony Kean who was working in the area. He sponsored the cancer society ($10) and we spent a decent hour unwinding with chat and ale. When Tony went for his supper I departed to my room and slept through until 6am.
DAY 31 MILTON TO MOSGIEL – 44KM

Leaving at first light I continued my walk along Highway1 passing Milburn and stopping for coffee and cake at Waihola. I had been here before when walking from the Cape to the Bluff but there was little of significance to remind me of the occasion all those years ago. Crossing the road I was able to join the quieter Titri Road which follows the perimeter of the lake. By now the mist had dispersed leaving bright sunshine and summer temperatures. It was a pleasant but short-lived respite lasting barely an hour as I resumed on Highway 1 where the traffic maintained its impetus throughout the afternoon. Reaching the Tairi turn off I was glad to descend down the lane to the sawmill; then turning right I followed the road to Berwick Street at Mosgiel where I met Pete’s Parents – my hosts for the night. After a shower I enjoyed a good meal with a cold beer; later we talked about both our countries and the pleasantries of walking; we even did a dry run into the city to ensure I understood my route for tomorrow.
MOSGIEL TO DUNEDIN – 17KM

Avoiding the motorway I now had to follow the country roads through Fairfield and Green Island which I managed at good pace. Pete and Michelle caught up with me on the way to a school function and later they prepared for my arrival in the city. On the last section I was joined by my Relay for Life Team, The Crown Worldwide Wanderers. My final descent to the Octagon was greeted by the press and finally a photo-shoot at the Terrace Bar – Barmy Army HQ.

Come on England!!

FINISHED ON 27TH FEBRUARY AT 12.30PM.
SUPPORTING ROBIN’S  NEW ZEALAND CAMPAIGN
For more information about raising funds for the Cancer Society NZ contact Pete Donaldson at:
peterdon@extra.co.nz
To support Robin’s Walk in the Otago Region click on:
www.relayforlife.org.nz/index/donation
Donations for Robin’s effort can also be made directly to the Cancer Societies of New Zealand (cheques marked ref: Robin Moore’s NZ WALK). Donations at Christchurch can be made to: Jane Sherriff, Manager Income Development, Canterbury West Coast Division, PO Box 13450, Christchurch 8141; or cash can be taken to the office (week days only) at 104 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch.
Ph 03 379 5835
jane@canty.canernz.org.nz
Also
West Coast Centre, 98 High St, Greymouth
Ph 03 768 9557
www.cancernz.org.nz
Supported by the Terrace Bar in the Octagon (John Mcdonald), Dunedin, the Barmy Army HQ for the South Island Test Match. To read more about Barmy Army Expeditions and other walks click on: Archive Diaries.  To follow the England Cricket tour in New Zealand go to the Barmy Army website.
To support Robin’s Walks Cancer Research UK click on the fundraising link below. To view more photographs of the NZ Walk go to Facebook – ‘Robin Moore’s Walking For Charity’.
www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore4
www.robin-moore.co.uk
SPRING EUROPE WALK  (Also supporting Cancer Research UK)
BEGINS FROM 23RD APRIL
PREVIOUS NEWSLETTERS (Also available with photos on the Home Page)- ‘A PILGRIMAGE OF WAR AND WORDS’ - Sue Ryder Presentation for ‘Robin Moore’s Oundle Pilgrimage’
To recap on the previous year including diaries, photos, books and presentations click on 2012 Review Page.

WINTER NEWSLETTER 2013

WINTER NEWSLETTER 2013

ROBIN MOORE’S NEW ZEALAND CHARITY EXPEDITION

Celebrating his 20^th year of charity walks, covering nearly 26,000 miles, Robin hopes to complete his next challenge in New Zealand. This occasion marks the 4^th walk in a calendar year over the last 12 months (a walk for each season). His last walk for Prostate Cancer ‘A PILGRIMAGE OF WAR AND WORDS’  helped support the MOVEMBER Campaign at the Rose & Crown who have been instrumental in supporting Robin’s local charities. The effort raised substantial money for prostate cancer and thanks to the generosity of the Rose & Crown 2 other charities (Air Ambulance and Sue Ryder) benefited from the MOVEMBER Campaign. A combined cheque for £742 plus was presented by Robin Moore and Stephen Cull, assistant Manager of the Rose and Crown on Friday 18th January in the company of Oundle Mayor George Higgins and representatives of Trek-Kits.

In 2010, Robin founded the Oundle Pilgrimage to help put Sue Ryder on the local fundraising map. ‘I wanted to create a Pilgrimage in honour of the charity as a thank you for helping local people and raise its profile for future support; we also encourage people to visit and enjoy this wonderful historic region. Each summer the Oundle Pilgrimage dedicates a weekend to the Sue Ryder, (see Pilgrimage section),  supported by Trek-Kits at Oundle Wharf and the Rose & Crown which is HQ for rundraising. Although we aim to promote the charity and encourage fundraising, the walk can be done any time as a leisure pursuit or journey of discovery. I have recently published cycle routes and family guides to expand the project; we also have a pub walk which we hope to launch on St Georges Day.’

The Rose & Crown has helped Robin promote the Sue Ryder campaign, recently raising over £250 for the charity; after MOVEMBER the pub had also been involved in raising over £2,000 for a popular young gentleman who died before Christmas.

Robin has also been working with David Dixon to develop pub walks in and around Southwick and Rockingham forest.

His next big challenge begins on January 26th on the South Island of New Zealand. It will be the last big walk of the country having already completed end-to-end and round the North Island expeditions, covering over 3,000km. He has also walked in Australia and plans to finish his travels in the continent next winter with another big challenge.

To help him raise money for the Cancer Society NZ and Cancer Research UK, please log onto his justgiving pages (when available) or make donations via the sponsor forms held at the Rose & Crown and other local pubs.

ITINERARY

ROBIN MOORE’S DIARY – SUPPORTING THE CANCER SOCIETY NZ AND RELAY FOR LIFE (see: Crown World Wide Wanders)

To make a donation to the Cancer Society for Robin’s effort please go to:

westcoast@canty.cancernz.org.nz

or use the link:

http://www.relayforlife.org.nz/index/donation

DAY 1 CHRISTCHURCH TO WEST MELTON -26KM

Feeling jetlagged and somewhat overloaded with equipment, I departed from the YMCA and steadily made my way out of the city and onto the West Coast highway – Route 73. Stopping at Tower Junction I purchased a charger for my phone and had a sausage roll at the Lion’s Stall where one of the attendents sponsored the charity $5. The hot conditions today were unforgiving as was the weight in my pack which was a few pounds over the normal load; it is often hard to gauge the equipoment required on these types of expeditions.

Soon I was beyond the city boundaries  and leaving Hornby the road became quiet and diminutive. As the afternoon breeze swept in I made my way to West Melton where the landlady at the tavern let me camp for the night in the garden. It was a quiet saturday and I was glad to quench my thirst and have a home-cooked meal; by nightfall I retired to my tent for the first night of many under canvas.

DAY 2 WEST MELTON TO DARFIELD – 25KM

I rose to dull and misty weather though it soon became hot as I slowly made my way along the quiet main road. At a forest junction a morning stroller stopped to chat and on hearing my story she offered advise for places to camp along Arthur’s Pass. Continuing in the heat I made it to the next village around noon and stopped for a drink of water at a garage. From here I walked a tough 8km to Darfield where I pitched my tent at the Domain and then went to the tavern to enjoy a roast dinner. After refreshment I went to the shop for some snack food and feeling tired I retired to a well earned rest in the shade.

DAY 3 DARFIELD TO SPRINGFIELD – 23KM

I woke before sunrise hoping to keep a step ahead of the heat and the first 12km to Waddington went reasonably well. Stopping at the green near the Sheffield Pie Shop, I watched the Trans Scenic train run past on its way to Greymouth – my destination at the end of the week if I am lucky enough to survive the heat. Unfortunately there was not any wind in sight and I suffered quite badly with heat exhaustion by the time I reached Springfield. I spoke to a guy at a campsite who gave me some water and at the hotel The landlord and his staff were kind and let me pitch a tent in the yard and also bought some of my books; here one can grasp the impact of the first earthquake that hit Christchurch causing most of the damage to suburban areas and countryside. 10.5km below Darfield the earthquake began – speeding towards Christchurch demolishing all that lied in its path. The staff explained the cost of the disaster to them personally and the political issues surrounding the plan for recovery; later they invited me to a barbecue and offered advice on how to cope with Arthur’s Pass in this heat which has now brought about an official drought to the region. With extra food on board I decided to rise at 4am and take a seista during the middle of the day; the whole pass would have to be split over 3 days which would mean a night or two under the stars.

DAY 4 SPRINGFIELD TO LAKE PEARSON – 40KM

And so it begins! Leaving in the dark I gave myself a good headstart against the formidable heat which would culminate in temperatures in excess of 35 degrees. The first testing encounter was a steep section over Porters Pass where the winding road was unrelenting in its ascent but rewarding as the road runs downhill to Lake Lyndon. As the journey evolved so too did the scenery which was sublime if not surreal at times welcoming only the call of the wild. As the journey gave respite the mountains remained dominant and there was an interesting rock formation on the rise above Castle Hill. Stopping at the holiday village of Castle Hill a couple invited me into their cabin for a meal and a cold drink. After an hour of good chat we parted company and I was left again to battle the heat over Craigeburn. Around teatime I stopped at a small lodge where a pretty young maid served me food and ale. After the interval I enjoyed a quiet cool session down to Lake Pearson where I camped in the company of water fowl.

DAY 5 LAKE PEARSON TO BEALEY LODGE – 34KM

After a breakfast of sardines which I shared with the local water hen I set off in the dark and mist which obscured all else but the road. These few hours ensured I made good speed whilst observing the sound of occasional traffic. Soon the heat kicked in along steep unforgiving climbs. Reaching the summits of Arthur’s pass  just blows you away allowing the overwhelming scenery to become an opiate in times of duress – its difficult to know which will wear out first – my body or my camera! Today I was in good nick and made it to Bealey’s Lodge by lunch time. Here the staff made me most welcome and let me have a cabin for the night. Later I chatted to a family group who gave me a meal and Vicki who works at the inn offered to take some of my equipment back to Christchurch; at present I was carrying too much in this heat. It turned out to be a lovely day and I enjoyed a proper rest which would make the difference tomorrow.

DAY 6 BEALEY’S LODGE TO JACKSONS – 50KM

Setting off around 6.30, I made to Arthur’s before nine and stopped for a pie and coffee. Leaving here the scenery around Oltira gorge was something to behold and I was in awe of its presence; bottomless terrain beneath timeless bridges and the constant flow of water ever-present. Stopping at lunchtime at the Otira inn I enjoyed a sandwich and chat to the landlady and another couple who were travelling around the country on holiday.

From here I stepped up the pace walking the whole session of 20km to Jacksons where the cheerful owner of the campsite let me stay for free; I then headed back to the region’s most famous famous pub for what was a splendid meal washed down with a jug of ale.

DAY 7 JACKSONS TO MOANA – 28KM

After a lovely breakfast with a group of Canadian tourists who were very kind in offering me some food, I set off taking the low road. This was to become a laboured affair as I now had blisters and trouble walking properly. I stopped first at a fishing lake and several times thereafter to refill my water bottles; I spent time at a farm where Mr and Mrs Usher made me welcome and I enjoyed tea and biscuits before the last walk of the day. This was shorter than expected and I made it to Moana around 7pm where the landlady let me stay in a cabin which was a wonderful reward for my day’s toil. I also had a good meal and ale; later I spoke to a young lad called Shaun from Manchester who was fishing along the West Coast.

DAY 8 MOANA TO STILLWATER – 24KM

Setting off in what was the closest I’d seen to drizzle so far, I enjoyed the cooler start making short work of the journey to Stillwater where the landlady of the local inn was also kind enough to let me use a cabin for the night. It was a busy place and later a stag party arrived to liven things up a bit. I also chatted to another Kiwi who was on holiday with his son and some friends from Scotland. Soon after I retired as the fading sound of cheerful banter drifted me into slumber.

DAY9 STILLWATER TO GREYMOUTH – 15KM

So here we are - the last section of the coast-to-coast which will finish phase 1. On leaving I passed the old mine works developed in the 19^th century and later at Dobson I was joined by Shaun who I met at Moana. Together we walked into Greymouth where Shaun had enough time to organise his trip back to the North Island where he would spend the rest of his holiday with his aunt from Tauranga.

I soon found the campsite at the Domain and promptly entered the pub across the road to celebrate my walk with the locals. Tomorrow will be a new beginning as I head of down the West Coast to Haast and the pass beyond.

PHASE 2

Commencing from 4th February (Greymouth to Haast)

DAY 10 GREYMOUTH TO PAROA – 15KM (Total walked)

After decamping quickly during the heavy rainfall I made my way to the Cancer Society for a press interview with the Greymouth Star. Then having updated my blog, I walked on to Paroa where the hoteliers let me camp on their land by the railway. The bar maid, Olivia was kind to me and took me back to her place for a shower, clothes wash and later a meal at the inn. It turned out they were all good friends of Richard Blakeborough making our liaison all the more interesting.

DAY 11 PAROA TO HOKITIKA – 30KM

The 6am train was my alarm call today as it thundered through shaking the ground I lay on; I was soon up and packed to make the most of a cooler start on a day which I hoped would yield around 30km. The cool air allowed me to wear more layers rather than carry them for a change and apart from a few litter collectors along the highway I saw only cattle and deer grazing the rich pastures. Later I ran into a bridge which was under repair; oddly it also shared its access with the railway. It looked a bit dodgy and as a car entered I immediately followed sprinting all the way to the end -  quite scary.

The cafe was closed at Kumara Junction so I continued a few kms and stopped for breakfast next to a crash barrier.

8km from Hokitika a lady stopped by to give me some spring water and once in town the landlord of the Pioneer Hotel was kind enough to let me camp- they were a bloody good crowd there and I stayed with them until closing time sharing a beer with Wayne Stuart who was heading back to Australia to work but also took time out to offer advice on where to stay at Bruce Bay when I arrive there next week.

DAY 12 HOKITIKA TO ROSS – 30KM

The freight train was again my alarm – just a little later this time but I soon dismantled the tent and pressed on across the bridge now bound for the Gold Town of Ross. I made good ground to Mahinapoa where I stopped for a breakfast of sardines and honey. As the journey evolved I enjoyed the scenery largely dominated by forest and the ever-present Southern Alps and to the right was farmland broken by streams and rivers. Stock ranged from deer, cattle, goats and sheep which all seemed alarmed to see me pass by. There was little to get excited about at Ruatapa though I still needed to rest so as to protect my feet from blisters. By 2pm I had reached the town of Ross and was offered a camping spot at the old Empire inn – what a characterful place! My neighbour was the pub goat called Raymond and later I met another traveller who also pitched nearby; he was also heading to Dunedin for the cricket and kindly donated $20 to the Cancer Society.

DAY 13 ROSS TO HARI HARI – 50KM

It was a lovely start at 5.30 am as I bade farewell to Raymond who was also up and ready for yet another day of maintaining the pub lawn. The beautiful forest offered protection from the heat as the sun rose over the mountains. I was waved on by road workers and often drivers tooted their horns. I refilled my water boittles at a farm and later stopped at the Bushman’s Centre where I chatted to the owners – the lady in fact hailed from Lancashire. Leaving the premises I noted the giant sculptured body of a sand fly which did not bode well for the journey ahead. Walking through Kakopotah Forst I took pleasure in mimicking the birds which seemed happy to oblige with some rhythmic sounds. The cattle were less happy charging towards me as I coursed beside their pastures. By lunchtime I had reached Lake Ianthe which was a popular location for the travellers of today – I also dwelled a while to enjoy a sardine lunch.

The rest of the day dragged on a bit as I passed over more narrow bridges some had flowing water beneath others barely a trickle as drought loomed ever close to the West.

Happily I arrived at Hari Hari where the landlady of the Hotel, Penny McCaul made me most welcome inviting to camp and use the facilities; in fact I’m just off to the bar now to enjoy a meal and a jug.

DAY 14 HARIHARI TO WHATAROA -  30KM

Starting in the mist  around 6.30am I enjoyed the forest views and winding roads which were more like a cycle route than a main road. There was barely a place in sight  and later I ate my breakfast in  a lay by atop the hill overlooking the gorge.

I passed numerous cattlefields and soon the mighty glaciers dominated my vision. On reaching Whataroa I stopped at the shop to ask for some sardines; they lady frowned at me and looked at her colleague and replied not too many of them around these parts. I fared better at the inn where the landlady who had only been there a month let me stay in a room and I enjoyed a lovely stay there.

DAY 15 WHATAROA TO FRANZ JOSEPH – 32 KM

Setting off at 7.15am I powered into the cool air making excellent progress as far as Mapourika where the Lions club where hosting a 24 hour salmon fishing contest. They were very friendly and invited me for breakfast; later some young ladies showed me part of the lake which they use for leisure. After returning for to the road I met a cyclist who had passed me a few times and once he heard about what I was doing offered to try and sort out a place to stay at Makarora later next week.

Soon I  was walking into the iconic region known as Franz Joseph; here I was fortunate enough to obtain a camp pitch at the nearby backpackers and later watched England beat NZ at cricket.

DAY 16 FRANZ JOSEPH TO FOX GLACIER – 24 KM

This was a tough little hike amid steep winding roads which as the heat emerged proved to be quite an ordeal and I was glad to reach the nice little refuge of Fox Glacier where the campsite owner let me pitch my tent. Later I returned to the inn where I met him and enjoyed good ale and food and chat with the cheerful bar staff – one young lady hailed from the UK.

DAY 17 FOX GLACIER TO BRUCE BAY – 50KM

It was cool enough when I started at 7am but it rose to a hot temperature by breakfast time. Stopping at a farm for a bite to eat I chatted with there farmer who in fact owned the pub I frequented the night before. After resuming I met a guy called Nigel from Padstow who was cycling around the world ; it was great to see another traveller and exchange our stories – hopefully I’ll be in touch again when I’m next in Cornwall. As the day rolled on so did the weather turning wet by afternoon. By the time I reached Bruce Bay it had subsided and on calling at the lodge opposite the village hall, John Birchfield the proprietor let me stay at his cottage where I enjoyed a meal, beer and a good night’s sleep – what a star!

DAY 18 BRUCE BAY TO KNIGHT’S POINT (3KM BEYOND) – 54KM

After thanking John for his kindness I headed off up the road with a spring in my step. First I had to cross a narrow bridge and part the way across had to retreat to let a coach go through. Later I met a pair of idiots on the way to work; they pulled up giving me the smart talk about how I should be walking across the forests and not on the road I was about to ask the mouthy driver when he last walked the coast when a fellow worker pulled up and I left them to hopefully have a saner conversation than the 90 seconds of dribble I’d just listened to. Any way these sorts have rarely done anything worthwhile with their own lives so tend to go out their way to put others down – he needs to know why I’m here – after all ‘what comes around goes around’ and he could easily one day find himself the at the wrong end of the deal.

Stopping at the Salmon Cafe I enjoyed cake and coffee and Graham, who was manager there offered to fix my rucksack which had broken under the sheer weight I was carrying. He offered to track me en route and return it to me once the repair was strong enough. I agreed I headed off at amazing speed feeling liberated from the burden I had carried for there last fortnight plus. By the time he caught up with me I had reach Lake Moeraki and was engaging in conversation with some fishermen/women from Wanaka which I hope to reach by the weekend.

After thanking Graham who gave me a salmon sandwich I continued uphill to a lodge where the owner seemed a little preoccupied with his conservation duties. He said something about camping at a power station – I never found it despite turning off on a few lanes. Passing over another bridge I was soon hitting the high ground around Knight’s Point. I could not camp here but later met another conservationist analyzing a land slide beyond the point, who gave me advise and also took a few photos of me. By nightfall I had set up camp  in a side lane on descent from the high ground where the rain kept me awake most of the night.

DAY 19 KNIGHT’S POINT TO HAAST – 21 KM

I did not realize the progress I had made yesterday and by noon I had reached the river ferry site where I spoke to the two ladies who help run the enterprise. Next I was braving the high winds of Haast Bridge as I entered the junction; here the pub owner let me camp in the hotel grounds near to the staff so I could use the facilities. During the evening I enjoyed a meal and prepared my mind for another long placeless trek through Haast Pass to lake Wanaka.

PHASE 3 -12 /02 (Haast to Queenstown)

DAY 20 HAAST TO PLEASANT FLAT – 47KM

A cool start gave me great momentum as I began my walk across Haast Pass which was a combination of gorge rain forests and mountains poking through the misty haze. On the way through I met another hiker heading towards Haast he was hitch-hiking and travelling for leisure; I also met a European cyclist who was heading up to Greymouth. I made decent progress covering 47km when I reached the campsite at Pleasant Flat – though I renamed it Unpleasant Flat owing to the population of sand flies here! My neighbour was called called Todd and was from the USA – he was heading back to Christchurch to see his girl friend but had time to show invaluable insight into how I could walk from Mexico to Canada – one for the future maybe?

DAY 21 PLEASANT FLAT TO  MAKARORA – 37KM

It was warmer today which created a bigger  challenge along with the sand flies which needed little encouragement for trouble. I met a couple of cyclists at another park called Cameron who had also supported the Cancer Society and so we had much to chat about. For much of this journey I followed the trail of dead opossums – I had seen many warning sign for feral poison control and yet the road’s cleansing powers always seem efficient enough. It was 3.30pm when I reached the campsite at Makarora – and I can tell you I had the biggest roast beef dinner imaginable – didn’t know whether to eat it or climb it! I managed to eat the lot with a drink a jug of ale and watch England win the 20-20 series; all good stuff!

DAY 22 MAKARORA TO LAKE HAWEA – 49KM

Tough day at the office but I was ready for it; enjoying a coffee at the township cafe en route before powering into a stretch which first gave panoramic views of Lake Wanaka; then an undulating trek alongside Lake Hawea. By the time I reached Mike and Lorraine’s Campsite at the foot of the lake I was tired and thirsty. Luckilly my hosts were very kind and made sure I was watered and fed; Bless them – they were brilliant!

DAY 22 HAWEA TO WANAKA – 15KM

Just a short day today with only Queenstown ahead as my last major staging post in the journey and on reaching the town I found a quiet camp site called Wanaka Lakeview where the lovely manageress, Kelly Cambell let me pitch for the night. Feeling a touch rundown I still took a look around the town and even watched some of the one day international – didn’t end well I’m afraid!!

DAY 23 WANAKA TO CARDRONA HOTEL – 25KM

Rising early I felt unwell due to heat exhaustion incurred from a hot and strenuous week so my first stop was the chemist to obtain a packet of rehydration powders. After saying farewell to Kelly, I set off into the stifling heat which was already over 30 degrees without a murmur of breeze. Passing only road workers I endured the heat until noon when I stopped for lunch of boiled egg and whole meal bread. I had only the minimal amount of water for this journey and was relieved when I finally reached the Cardrona Hotel. Cade Thornton was the new manager of this impressive little palace and he was kind enough to offer me a room in order to recuperate properly. This was probably the most appealing place I have been to yet – almost iconic in appearance with excellent facilities to match its endearing character and charm – an excellent location for those who prefer to relax in the basement of New Zealand devoid of all the adrenalin.

DAY 24 CARDRONA HOTEL TO ARROWTOWN/QUEENSTOWN – 50KM

After breakfast I headed off towards the steepling Crown Range – the highest point in the region. It was cool and I was in good nick so the winding undulation did not pose a great threat though I was thirsty on reaching the summit – boy it was windy too. After a few photos and a chat to a Swiss lady who had watch me ascend to the top, I started my descent to the next ridge where I shared an apple with an American lady cycling to Wanaka – she would have got value for money on this route!

At Arrow Junction I had to make a 20 km excursion into Queenstown the capital of the West Coast where a press correspondent called Olivia met me en route for an interview. After completion I made the final effort to reach the town centre and promptly retired to the Pig and Whistle for refreshment.

PHASE 4 – 20/02 (Queenstown to Dunedin)

DAY 25 ARROWTOWN TO BANNOCKBURN HOTEL – 52KM

After my journey to Queenstown I returned to Rod’s Place at Arrowtown which was once a famous for its gold mining as was the region I would pass through today; a century ago Chinese miners came here to make their fortunes though sadly none of them made it back home. The first stage of my journey took me back to the Arrowtown junction and a few km on I passed the Crown Range turn off where I came off yesterday and once again I was into a new day with another 42km to reach my destination.

Stopping at a bungi bridge I watched a dive before 3 coach loads of Chinese invaded the centre; from here I pressed on to the Gibbston Winery. As I was drinking my coffee, Manager Greig came over and shook my hand having seen me walking to Queenstown and again today at Arrow Junction. He was also kind enough to sort me out some lunch for the day ahead.

It was a long day too along the winding gorge where water was hard to obtain – my main source came from a power station where I sat and ate my lunch. I consumed over 10 litres of water today and some fruit which the lady gave me at her stall. Another man gave $2 to the cause and at the next hotel I received instructions to Bannockburn. These I followed to the letter and made to the hotel where I enjoyed a nice supper before resting.

DAY 26 BANNOCKBURN HOTEL TO ALEXANDRA – 35KM

I enjoyed a lovely breakfast with Tim and a good chat about all that has happened in NZ of late. I thanked for his hospitality and headed off downhill to Cromwell. From the wind was the dominant force as I continued through the Cromwell Gorge next to the water which finally culminated at a dam near Clyde. I was glad to leave the highway after a laboured affair against the wind and on reaching the village I first had coffee then stopped for a chat at the pub; both premises were kind enough to donate to the cancer society and boost our fund for Relay for Life.

From here I was able to enjoy a pleasant afternoon beside the river as I walked the cycle route into Alexandra. Here I was lucky to stay with friends Dave and Elsie who gave me a lovely meal before I retired for the day.

DAY 27 ALEXANDRA TO MILLER’S FLAT -60KM

Leaving quite late for a change – largely due to banking and news reports, I headed off back to the bridge to pick up my route along H8 to Roxburgh. This was little along the way other than traffic bound for the weekend concert which was at times a bit hairy given tyhe roads winding/undulating formation. I did enjoy a stop at the Spearman’s Hotel where the landlady gave me a nice lunch and we had a lovely chat too which made it a nice break.

Continuing a bit further I also came across another hotel at Shingle Creek which was deserted and it was another 10km before I came across any other facilities. On reaching Roxburgh township I stopped at a cafe and had a coffee; whilst relaxing I had a chat to a lady who had seen me walking earlier; she was a post lady and also did a bit of cooking for a local hotel at Roxburgh. From here I made good time to the town reaching the centre by 5.45pm. Continuing into the cooler air I faced speeding traffic which often took the white line without giving me any consideration at all- I guess when the concert is on humanity is less important.

I had believed Miller’s Flat was only 10km but after 2 hours of serious power-marching I was alarmed to find I still had another 6 km to walk! Reached the pub before dusk where the landlady got me a beer; then I went to Paul Moody’s house for a lovely lamb dinner and a few welcome beers – it all finished well and I was grateful for the support I  received on this long hard perilous slog.

DAY 28 MILLER’S FLAT TO BEAUMONT – 27KM

After bidding Paul and his little girl farewell I had a coffee with the landlady who was also kind enough to make me a sandwich. After I walked back over the bridge and continued my journey along the Millennium Track which was mostly unsealed and followed the river as far as the next town. I passed the lonely graves – a point of interest and stopped at a couple of scenic locations by the river. By 3pm I crossed the road bridge and walked into Beaumont where the landlady of the Beaumont Hotel let me camp for free and after completing my washing, diary and meal I felt relaxed enough to watch a bit of 50 over cricket featuring the decider between England and NZ.

DAY 29 BEAUMONT TO LAWRENCE – 20KM

Having woke the tired landlady who had barely slept due to her sheep shearing contest, I persuaded her to organise a cooked breakfast which she was kind enough to do for me along with a flat white coffee. She went on to explain that she expected another busy day with people returning from the concert; she also said it was essential to keep hosting events in order to make a living. Fair play – I told a tale of woe regarding some of my native pubs which have gone under due to a the harsh winds of Austerity which recession has blown in. Soon I was on my way again using part of the track beside the road where possible and apart from a few hills there was little to bother me. Around 1pm I reached Lawrence and was offered a room by the kind gentleman from the prospector; an appropriate place as this was where the gold mining industry all started back in 1861 and even now this little town still emanates that bygone age.

DAY 30 LAWRENCE TO MILTON – 40KM

Starting in the mist I made the most of the cool air building good momentum as the morning evolved. Miles rolled by in an immense blizzard of commuter traffic though the scenery remains intoxicating as the mist rises above the green and pleasant landscape. It was good to see the transition from stern mountain ranges to green hilly pastures reminissent of the ‘old country’. Trekking through Manuka Gorge the temperature rose incurring perspiration and thirst. Unfortunately there were no townships here but after stopping at a picnic area I found a house selling organic produce where the lady filled my water bottles. On departure Pete and Michelle pulled up with more water – when it rains it pours! They at least relieved me of my rucksack which enabled me to up the mieage to 7km per hour. By 2.30pm I had reached Milton and after coffee and photos I continued to the Old Peoples Home where Michelle had organised a night stopover for me. At the supper table was a guy called Tony who hailed from Lancaster and another lady who served me tea. After a good chat I visited the pub and met a gardener called Tony Kean who was working in the area. He sponsored the cancer society ($10) and we spent a decent hour unwinding with chat and ale. When Tony went for his supper I departed to my room and slept through until 6am.

DAY 31 MILTON TO MOSGIEL – 44KM

 Leaving at first light I continued my walk along Highway1 passing Milburn and stopping for coffee and cake at Waihola. Crossing the road I was able to join the quieter Titri Road which follows the lake. By now the mist had dispersed leaving bright sunshine and summer temperatures. It was a pleasant respite but an hour later I was back on Highway 1 where the traffic maintain its impetus throughout the afternoon. Reaching the Tairi turn off I was glad to descend down the lane to the sawmill where I turned right following the road to Berwick Street at Mosgiel where I met Pete’s Parents – my hosts for the night. Here I enjoyed a goog meal and chat about both our countries and the pleasantries of walking; we even did a dry run into the city to ensure I understood tomorrows route.

MOSGIEL TO DUNEDIN – 17KM

Avoiding the motorway I now had to follow the country roads through Fairfield and Green Island which I managed at good pace. Pete and Michelle caught up with me on the way to a school function and later they prepared for my arrival in the city. On the last section I was joined by my Relay for Life Team, The Crown Worldwide Wanderers. My final descent to the Octagon was greeted by the press and finally a photo-shhoots at the Terrace Bar – Barmy Army HQ.

Come on England!! 

 

FORECASTED TO FINISH ON 1ST MARCH AROUND NOON.

For more information about raising funds for the Cancer Society NZ contact Pete Donaldson at:

peterdon@extra.co.nz

A Justgiving page for the cancer society will be available soon (via Pete); also donations can be made directly to the Cancer Societies of New Zealand (cheques marked ref: Robin Moore’s NZ WALK). For example, donations at Christchurch can be made to: Jane Sherriff, Manager Income Development, Canterbury West Coast Division, PO Box 13450, Christchurch 8141; or cash can be taken to the office (week days only) at 104 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch.

Ph 03 379 5835

jane@canty.canernz.org.nz

Also

West Coast Centre, 98 High St, Greymouth

Ph 03 768 9557

www.cancernz.org.nz

At the end of the walk we may have a collection at Dunedin Cricket Ground during the test match between England and New Zealand. We are also anticipating the Barmy Army will be out in force for the occasion. Limited editions about Robin’s first NZ Expedition will also be available at the cricket ground and the Terrace Bar in the Octagon (John Mcdonald), Dunedin. Also enquire at the Barmy Army Stalls. To read more about endurance/power walking for charity click on: Archive Diaries. Any fundraising events/ideas along the way will be welcome; fundraisers are also invited to spend a day on the road at any point of the journey (text first to obtain exact location en route).

To support Cancer Research UK click on the fundraising link below.

 www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore4

http://www.robin-moore.co.uk

Text: 07706197209

PREVIOUS NEWSLETTERS (Also available with photos on the Home Page)- ‘A PILGRIMAGE OF WAR AND WORDS’ - Sue Ryder Presentation for ‘Robin Moore’s Oundle Pilgrimage’

To recap on the previous year including diaries, photos, books and presentations click on 2012 Review Page.

2012 in review

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The new Boeing 787 Dreamliner can carry about 250 passengers. This blog was viewed about 1,300 times in 2012. If it were a Dreamliner, it would take about 5 trips to carry that many people.

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ROBIN MOORE’S PILGRIMAGE OF WAR AND WORDS

A PILGRIMAGE OF WAR AND WORDS

 

THE MENIN GATE

Based on 3 walks (with books to follow) to commemorate the hundredth anniversary of the First World War, this first expedition starts at the Menin Gate and continues through Northern France to Nantes. The effort supports Cornwall Hospice Care and Prostate Cancer – ‘MOVEMBER’. See justgiving pages to sponsor Robin; you can also visit the Coppice Inn, Lanner to support Cornwall Hospice Care or The Rose & Crown, Oundle to be part of the MOVEMBER Challenge where either Robin or Ned will sign you up to grow a moustache for Prostate Cancer.

 

WALKING THE WAR GRAVES OF FLANDERS AND NORTHERN FRANCE

 

PHASE 1 YPRES TO AMIENS (THE FIRST WORLD WAR)

DAY 1 – 5KM TOUR OF YPRES

 

Arriving at the Menin Gate was a memorable occasion in itself and having set up camp nearby, I was able to attend the last post ceremony which is conducted each night before dusk. It is always a poignant affair commemorating so many lives lost in the battle for freedom and their names inscribed inside this huge monument convey the cost of history’s most horrific war. The Great War should never be forgotten for in this field of conflict have been so many sacrifices.

 

‘Over the top we go my friend,

To face bullet and barbed wire to our final end,

With only moments to live we struggle through the mud,

Into the darkness of battle, gun fire and blood.’

 

 

DAY 2. YPRES TO LILLE – 35KM

 

 I began this first pilgrimage from the Mennin Gate with thoughts of those less fortunate to have visited this little place nearly a hundred years ago. I hoped to take many photographs and write up my experiences on the road and note in particular any of the great battlefields I will see over the 3 walks I will do between now and 2014.  Not far from town is Bedford House Cemetery where the strongest words of war are found on the epitaphs of the dead buried in a formation of white tombstones that spread for acres each side of a nearby stream. A touring party gathered close by as I perused a few rows looking for long lost relatives; it was a hopeless task as one could easily spend a week out here in search of a relative – many of the sections were simply listed as ‘Unknown Soldier’ and the regiments that served here were innumerable. In fact the whole stretch between here and Lille was interspersed with graveyards built literally where men from Britain and the Commonwealth had fallen in battle. The whole episode was poignant and humbling to walk among such bravery and sacrifice which is largely unimaginable in today’s world. These days people seem more stressed about second homes, cars and 100,000k bonuses to pay for it all. Many know not of the suffering of these great men whose epitaphs will remain iconic in these parts until the world’s end.

Crossing the border into France about 2pm, the passage gradually became more urbanised taking in a riverside stretch on the outskirts of Lille. After a walk through the town I was offered a room at the Hotel De la Treille (normally 185eu per night) for 41eu by the manager which I gratefully took and after 2 beers, bread and cheese retired to bed.

 

DAY 3. LILLE TO VIMY RIDGE – 40KM

 

VIMY RIDGE

Bidding goodbye to my hosts after a wonderful stay, I took the cultural route to the edge of the city where I continued my journey along the D925. Magnificent architecture and village war memorials were the dominant features of today’s journey as passed through Watignies, Seclin, Carvin and Lens where I sampled ‘café au lait’ in the sun outside a local restaurant. Feeling indecisive about which direction to take from here, an old gentleman crossed the road to offer advice. Following his instructions I was able to progress along an old road to Eleu and eventually Vimy where I stopped a shop to obtain groceries for the next two days. The main road continues through the ridge which is surrounded by timber fencing. It was near here that the Canadians fought a great battle during WW1. Locating an entrance to the forest marked by a Maple leaf, I entered and camped nearby that evening enjoying the peace and solitude the location offered.

 

DAY 4. VIMY RIDGE TO WARLINCOURT LES PAS – 45KM

 

THE CITADEL OF ARRAS

  Rising at 7am allowed ample time to decamp and explore the area which has been designated as a national park in honour of the Canadians who fought here; beyond the area is a cemetery where the men fell in battle. There were many more of these along the way as my journey continued first to the lively town of Arras and then along a cycle route which showed insight into the quieter rural areas. Arras was steeped in ancient architecture with a plaza/citadel area reminiscent of Santiago in Spain. There was the usual confusion of finding an exit and I did not join my planned route though the cycle route proved invaluable allowing me safe passage as far l’Arbert. After a short blast along the main route I was able to turn off and follow the route to Pas-en-Artois where I found a camp site at Warlincourt les Pas.

 

DAY 5. WARLINCOURT LES PAS TO AMIENS – 40KM

 

The weather remained sunny – cool at night but pleasantly warm in the day reaching a top temp of about 17c. I had washed some socks and a shirt at the camp site the previous evening and they were drying out nicely on the back of my rucksack as I neared Pas-en-Artois.  After a coffee at Pas-en-Artois, I began my trek through the Somme Region which was another important battle front during the Great War; those that fought here as with Ypres knew suffering beyond imagination. During the initial offensive in 1916, 20,000 men fell in the first hour of the campaign which by the end of the war had accounted for more than 600,000 casualties.

There were many memorials along the way and a few broken areas which resembled partial trenches now flanked by evergreens interspersed across miles of arable land. During the time of the war the landscape along the Somme River would have been unrecognisable as men sheltered in trenches from the barrage of shrapnel that left behind churned up mud, barbed wire and broken spirit. Today the forests look green enjoying the fertile terrain and I was amazed to find that many of the crops were yet to be harvested.

Passing a farm I saw a litter of cats learning their apprenticeship in the waste ground nearby.  As I neared Amiens the traffic intensified and I had to ensure I got onto the correct route into the town. I saw no sign of the military HQ of the Somme Campaign; only a hospice building resembled anything that may have survived that era. It was quite pleasant down by the river and after collecting a few groceries I continued away from the place using a minor road which at least ensured me an opportunity to camp at one of the smaller villages. I managed to find a forest/park area around dusk and set up camp beside a small stream; apart from the furore of squabbling ducks, it was peaceful enough to ensure I had a few hours of quality sleep.

 

PHASE 2 AMIENS TO LE MANS

DAY 6. AMIENS TO MARSEILLE EN-BEAUVAIS – 50KM

 

Waking in a downpour I hastily packed my kit and headed off in the direction of Conty – roughly 14km.

I passed many villages and it wasn’t until I reached Conty that I realised I was on the wrong road!! It hardly mattered except for 3km excursion west to pick up my planned route to Crevecoeur-le-Grand. As it turned out it was even quieter than the last road journey as I headed away from the Somme Valley and relics of the Great War. Although Normandy had seen its share of conflict in the Second World War, today was celebrated by the rural composure of this beautiful countryside. So quiet were the villages I passed through that I did not even find a shop or anything that resembled a contemporary facility.

Eventually I arrived at Crevecoeur and was able to obtain water and food. It was after 5pm but I still managed to cover a further 10km to Marselle en-Beauvais and camped at dusk in a coppice by a ploughed field above the town. I sat for a while and watched the day draw to a close – the world seemed at peace here and so was I.

 

DAY 7. MARSELLE –EN-BEAUVAIS TO LES ANDELYS – 60KM

 

There was light rain during the night and it felt a few degrees warmer so I did not need to use my bivvy bag. Leaving at dawn in windy wet conditions, I was unable to obtain water for the first 10km. I had to go off course into a tourist village where I got water from the tourist office and later a coffee at a craft shop. Here I enthused about my experience of walking Europe and that so far I had made good progress on this trip. I continued in the rain stopping for more coffee and provisions at Gournay-en-Bray.

Pressing on in heavy rain I encountered farm machinery and speeding lorries which seemed to gather momentum in inclement weather. The conditions did not ameliorate and around 5pm I stopped at a small village for raisin bread and coffee. After photographing the cenotaph and church, I continued my journey towards Les Andelys which was a further 18km. Wet weather prevailed all day flooding the narrow road as darkness fell. By now I was at the mercy of speeding traffic with little en route other than the usual benign villages that would harbour no shelter or facilities. Finally at 9pm I entered the town of Les Andelys where I got a hotel room for 60 euros; later I managed to feed myself at a Chinese Restaurant on the buffet menu and after washing my wet clothes I fell into a deep sleep brought on through sheer exhaustion.

 

DAY 8. LES ANDELYS TO ST SEBASTIAN – 40KM

 

 It was a relief to find refuge last night and I was also able to enjoy both an evening meal and breakfast for once. Walking in clean dry kit also put a spring in my step as I gathered pace throughout the first 10km to Gaillon. After coffee I managed another 15km to Evrioux  where I gathered provisions for the night. Owing to a later start it was dark by the time I reached St Sebastian and so pitched a tent just a few km beyond the town at a small village park.

 

DAY 9. ST SEBASTIAN TO L’AIGLE – 56KM

 

Rising at 6am I was greeted with wet, windy conditions which prevailed initially though by the time I reached the lovely town of Condes (16km) the sun was shining I spent my meal break at the castle ruin. Nearby was a lovely slim-spire church; though the villages portray a quieter version of life compared to the larger towns, they abound with character hallmarked by Gothic-style buildings Norman churches and elegant bell towers. There was also a great sense of rural isolation about the journey occasionally broken by forests frequented by deer and red squirrels. There was a dead adder lying in the roadside and some huge toads which had also been crushed by the speeding traffic. I stopped at La Neuve-Lyre around 5.30pm and a further 12km saw at L’Aigle where I did my shopping. On locating my next route at the end of town I pitched camp on the rough ground above the carriageway.

 

DAY 10. L’AIGLE TO BELLAME – 50KM

 

Decamping at 7am, saturated in dew, I made my way through the rural countryside along the quieter D930 as far as the next town (10km) Les Apres where I stopped for coffee.

By midday the cloud cover turned to drizzle which was set for the duration of the outing. The slow hack took in a large expanse of forest broken by diminutive communities culminating at Mortagne Au Perche at 3pm – 30km completed.

From here I embarked on the last stage of phase 2 to Le Mans.

The rain grew heavy – not boding well for camping tonight; I had one further coffee break before completing the last 10km to Bellame where the local grocer was very kind and helpful. She warmed me up with a drink and contacted the local priest to help find me a place to stay. He turned about 9pm and took me to a small shelter which is used for homeless people a few meters from the shop. Here I welcomed the use of a shower and a bed for the night thanks to the kindness of these people whom I’d only just met.

 

DAY 11. BELLAME TO LE MANS – 54KM

 

Rising early I set off from the shelter around 8am, taking a few photos before leaving town. At least I had a dry start though my kit was wet and my knee hurt due to the extra weight of my rucksack– about 70lbs in all.

8km into the day I stopped for coffee at a village called Ige. From here I pressed on to a supermarket where I brought my lunch and chatted with the young maid who was actually fluent in English. Whilst I was eating my food the shop closed and the maid came over to wish me well as I went on to explain that I would be walking the rest of Northern France. An 11km walk saw me arrive at Bonne Table – by now I was 30km from Le Mans. The afternoon passed quickly and the weather stayed warm though there was a build up of traffic 10km from Le Mans. Unable to find any facilities I pressed on into town where eventually I found a bar that was still open on a Sunday. Here the locals welcomed me and praised my efforts. The landlady brought over meat and bread and the girls I met bought me drinks. Later one lady called Laelilia showed me where to camp and gave me her address so that I could get a shower and breakfast in the morning – all in all it was a good end to the day.

 

PHASE 3 LE MANS TO NANTES (NORTHERN FRANCE BORDER)

 

DAY 12. LE MANS TO MAILCOMBE – 35KM

 

Having poured of rain all night I managed to pack my gear and tent quickly and then find my friend’s flat where I enjoyed a shower and breakfast whilst she dried some of my clothes. Bading farewell about 10pm I encountered road repairs; most people I had spoken to here lived in fear of the Taliban though this place seemed more under siege of a JCB as the whole town centre had been decimated by road works. On leaving Le Mans I faced heavy rain throughout the day which was also the forecast for the week. It was hard to keep going and I made more than the usual stops to get me to reach La Suze and Mailcombe where on finding a reasonable hotel opted to stay the night. I welcomed the comfort of a room and a chance to dry out my gear, which had become increasingly heavy due to inclement weather. Just as I had called it a day down came a huge storm which justified my decision to stop at the inn.

 

DAY 13. MAILCOMBE TO ANGERS – 60KM

 

A good night’s rest gave me strength and with a dry start I made light work of the D23 to Durtal covering 25km by 1.30pm. I now had to make the decision on which route to take to Nantes which was about another 150km.

Traffic died down in the afternoon due to a road works which completely blocked off the next town; it would seem that maintenance here is a serious business leaving the thoroughfare barely passable with no access to shops/restaurants nearby. Later I passed over the River Loire for the first time admiring the views of mill and waterfalls on the left. It was a huge boost as the Loire is a natural border of Northern France and a reminder that the end of the journey was now in sight. From Seiches Le Loir I would power my way through the final outposts of this epic journey heading first for Angers; then a 100km stretch along the main carriageway by the river to Nantes.

It was a great effort and I gave my all as I reached Angers by nightfall – the last big town before Nantes which I hoped to reach sometime on Thursday.

By the time I reached the top of town I found a Pension and decided to stay there for 40eu including breakfast rather than camping.

 

DAY 14/15 ANGERS TO NANTES – 100KM

 

Having enjoyed a good night’s rest I indulged in a nourishing breakfast leaving the pension around 7am – still dark. I was soon perplexed by the intricate motorway system and had difficulty getting on to a pedestrian route. Having stopped at a few hotels to obtain instructions on how to escape this place, I managed to follow a country lane which took me to St Jean De Lineare. It was a bit of a lottery getting there as the penultimate junction wasn’t sign posted; thankfully turning right led me to the correct destination.

After a much needed coffee I joined the D723 to St Georges s-Loire (11km) with Nantes registering a further 79km.

After some drizzle it brightened up and I made the most of the little towns along the way stopping at St Georges and Capogiate with its castle ruin. Entering a café I met a mad woman who kept pestering me and trying to get drinks of customers as they came through the door; none of them stayed long! Worse still she spoke fluent English and started ranting at me and mocking my efforts for charity. Even after I left she pursued me in a car despite having downed a good volume of wine whilst at the café.

The whole affair was quite unsettling as I tried to concentrate along the busy road. Wet weather came and so did the blisters as I wore down my training shoes to bare rubber. I eventually resorted to wearing size 9 walking shoes – ouch!! These really pinched my heels – all the walking had made my feet swell to size 10 which is my usual expedition shoe size.

By 6pm I had completed 50km taking in Ingrandes and Varades with Nantes another 40 plus left to walk. After a coffee I soldered on to the last main town en route called Alcenes which was slightly west of the D723 on the River Loire. As dusk drew near I struggled to find a route out of the town and after consulted a maid at an inn I continued along a subsidiary road which eventually rejoined the D723. The walk became intense in the pitch black and pouring rain and at the next town junction, 29km from Nantes, I felt that I was too sore to continue efficiently. In desperation I tried to put up a tent in the dark. The ground was hard and I was unable to drive the pegs in sufficiently and so just made a temporary shelter where I rested for a couple of hours from a relentless storm. Unable to sleep I dismantled the shelter as soon as the rain stopped and continued walking in the dark. The respite was only a short one and as the storm recommenced so did the build up traffic. It was like walking up a stream at times and the speeding trucks made the journey a hazardous one. As the menacing trucks rolled by, in the distance there were lightning flashes as thunder roared across the sky. Eventually daylight began to emerge from the heavy clouds and on finding a café on the outskirts of town I stopped for a drink and chat to the owners who told me the train station was a further 10km. It was a difficult passage in the side of the road and I stopped once more for a breakfast at Macdonalds. From here I gradually made my way to the train station to conclude my walk and after the monumental effort from the previous day I was glad to obtain a bit of food and a comfort as I began the journey back home. From Nantes Gare I was able to get a train to Rennes; a second one to Morlaix where a bus took me to the town of Roscoff where I awaited the ferry service back to Plymouth. I had missed today’s voyage and therefore booked into a hotel for the night. Roscoff was a lovely place which I would hope to visit again in the Spring when walking the Bordeaux section from Biarritz. Now was the end of season and it was pleasantly quiet as a young maid at the hotel made me welcome and helped with important information. After enjoying a sunny morning by the harbour I made my way to the terminal where I boarded the ferry to Plymouth around 1600 hours. Arrival in Redruth was not until after midnight.

The whole effort was something of an epic, starting at the Menin Gate in the shadow of World War 1 and finishing along the Loire in Northern France.

At this stage I’d like to appeal to the public to make an effort to support either of my chosen charities by making a donation to my justgiving pages featured on the website. You can also make donations at the inns mentioned on our newsletters.

 

FUTURE PILGRIMAGES OF WAR

WALK 2 – 2013 – GERMANY/HOLLAND TO THE MENIN GATE

WALK 3 – 2014 – BASEL TO THE MENIN GATE

 

CHEQUE PRESENTATION – SUE RYDER (NOVEMBER)

PROSTATE CANCER (DECEMBER)

CORNWALL HOSPICE CARE (2013)

 

NEXT EVENT

WALKING NEW ZEALAND 2013.

Itinerary to be scheduled soon….

Autumn Newsletter 2012

 

ROBIN MOORE’S CHEQUE PRESENTATION FOR CANCER RESEARCH U K –Also features latest walk across Europe ‘A Pilgrimage of War and Words.

On Monday 24^th September at the Rose & Crown Oundle, Robin Moore handed over a cheque for £650 to fundraising executive, Annette Beeton from Cancer Research UK in honour of his anniversary walk from Land’s End to Oundle. The walk replicated his first effort for the charity over 20 years ago and therefore represents a significant milestone in an era of power-marching; since then he has walked over 25,000 miles and written over 20 books about his travels as well as some useful walking guides. Although it was staged initially as a celebration event it was also a dedication to much-loved friend Colin Davies, who sadly died of pancreatic cancer last Christmas. ‘We enjoyed many years of cricket together and Colin was one of my greatest supporters often helping to finance some of my charity walks abroad.’ The funds raised will go towards equipment at the Oncology Unit, Peterborough Hospital (part of the Cambridge Research Institute which is the largest in Europe).

 

The walk went well despite undergoing a hernia repair a month earlier, though Robin expresses his disappointment about not raising more money. ‘ There were technical problems initially with the website going down (justgiving page/ newsletters ect), but more sadly the weather thwarted our campaign over the summer and we could not host the anniversary Cheese & Wine evening which would have added to the purse. Also, I published a pub guide/ article with the Nene Valley News which we intended to use as a St George’s Day fundraising celebration. The weather denied us the opportunity and despite other attempts there was no point in prolonging the presentation with new campaigns now pending. I can only say how grateful I am to Shawn and Kim from the Rose & Crown, who have put themselves out to help me raise the funds required for my charities. The proprietors have raised thousands of pounds for many local charities and we are also expecting to present a large cheque to Sue Ryder in November (in excess of £2000) from the Oundle Pilgrimage event which was sufficiently productive despite the poor summer season.’

The walk was also supported in Cornwall through Robin’s local inns, The Fox & Hounds Comford, and the Coppice, Lanner who are presently involved in Robin’s latest campaign for Cornwall Hospice Care.

 

Robin has raised over £30,000 for cancer research – £12,000 have been presented from Oundle alone, (other campaigns received National support). ‘When I first started raising funds for the charity (then Imperial Cancer Research Fund), nobody locally had heard of them – since those enduring days many of my supporters them and friends have all done something for the cause out of respect of what I have achieved personally. I probably feel just as proud helping to inspire others as I am presenting the cheques!’

 

In a few days time Robin will set off on a pilgrimage across the Battlefields of the Great War starting in Belgium and finishing on the Bay of Biscay; the walk is in honour of the Prostate Cancer Charity and will go towards the Rose & Crown ‘MOVEMBER’ Campaign; in Cornwall support will go towards Cornwall Hospice Care – supported by the Coppice Inn, Lanner; The Fox & Hounds, Comford and Lanner Inn are also big supporters of Robin’s charity walks.

Events will be held locally to raise money for Robin’s charity walk across Europe.

 

COMMENCING 30^TH September

PHASE 1 –

Ostende

Ypres

Lille

 

PHASE 2 –

Lille to Amiens (via the Somme)

 

PHASE 3 –

Amiens to Le Mans

Le Mans to Nantes

RETURN TO CORNWALL (Plymouth via ferry)

Fundraising events at the Coppice include car boot sale and sponsored Karaoke; possible harvest supper; all other ideas are welcomed! Online justgiving pages are available below or at CANCER CHARITIES. A blog/day-to-day diary will be published on the website below.

 www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore3

www.robin-moore.co.uk

 

Also on Face book: ‘Robin Moore’s Walking for Charity’

 

 

 

FUNDRAISING FOR CORNWALL HOSPICE CARE

THE CORNISH PILGRIMAGE
Supported by the Coppice Inn, Lanner
Founded by Robin Moore as a project for Cornwall Hospice Care, this trail connects Mount Edgcumbe Hospice in St Austell to St Julia’s in Hayle; it forms the main section of a 160-mile pilgrimage of Cornwall from Launceston to St Michael’s Mount.

Based on the recent campaign for Cornwall Hospice Care, Robin Moore invites walkers to try this 3-day challenge.

START: Mount Edgcumbe Hospice, Porthpean Road, St Austell.
TRANSPORT: Bus Stop and Railway Station share the same location at the top of St Austell.
WALK: (80 miles, moderate to easy terrain) formed from bridleways, public footpaths, mineral trails and tram roads interchanging with the Cornwall Coast Path and Cornish Way. Some sign posts are marked with yellow tape and St Piran Scallop Shells denote the Gwennap Section.
INNS: There are over 30 inns along the way; locations include: Pentewan, Mevagissey, Port Mellon, Portloe, Veryan, Philleigh, Devoran, Carharrack, St Day, Lanner, Comford, Camborne, Gwinear,  and Hayle.
CAMPSITES: Pentewan, Boswinger, Veryan and St Day.
B&B: The Ship Inn, Mevagissey; The Lugger Hotel, Portloe; The New Inn, Veryan; The Lanner Inn, Lanner.

Taking in nearby hamlets and villages the journey sets off along Route 3 which spurs off the Porthpean Road at Mount Edgcumbe Hospice. After following its course to the outskirts of St Austell, Route 3 connects with the Pentewan Tramroad and follows the river along a woodland course for about 3 miles. The trail terminates at the Pentewan Cycle Hire, offering an opportunity to visit The Ship Inn or perhaps the pleasant café in the square. Continuing beyond the village to the campsite, locate the coast path near the entrance. After descending through the pastures to a small bridge, a steep climb above the bay rewards participants with seaward views of Fowey and Pentewan Sands to the left.  
A further descent leads to Mevagissey Harbour where leisure craft mingle with local fishing vessels that still help to provide a living for this popular tourist centre. The coast path continues along the busy thoroughfare and over another hill as it tumbles into Port Mellon – a tranquil spot known for its lovely harbour and inn close by. The journey now moves away from the coast as it follows Route 3, contrasting the windswept cliffs and bustling seaside resorts to the peaceful rural heartland of Roseland.

Follow the road (Route 3 markers) to the campsite at Boswinger (there is also a Youth Hostel), and then continue to the top of Caerhay’s Estate where there is a public footpath. The descent along the footpath leads to Porthluney Cove where the cafe is open in summer season. This tranquil little beach is popular among visitors and locals; another is Portholland which can be reached along the coast path (1 mile). Staying on the coast path from Portholland continue to Portloe where the next couple of miles will certainly clear the lungs! The Cornwall Coast Path is uniquely exacting with dramatic headlands and steep coastal valleys that ensure the journey remains a formidable one. The descent into Portloe immediately captures an idyllic picture postcard view of the harbour which typifies a Cornish fishing village. At the bottom is the Lugger Hotel and a short distance uphill is The Ship Inn which also provides accommodation. Past the pub car park is a row of houses on the right where a foot path to Veryan forms the next section of the pilgrimage trail. This is a welcome reprieve from the strenuous coast path and provides a pleasant route to Veryan finishing at the park next to the church. There is a shop nearby and a pub which serves excellent food. The Roseland Inn at Philleigh is the only other pub along this route as far as King Harry Ferry. The journey to reach this location is covered along Route 3 which passes Pendower before heading inland for the next 3 miles. There is a footpath to Philleigh marked with yellow tape which snips off a small section of Route 3. The whole affair is typically rural where the smell of the countryside is ever present. From The Roseland Inn, there is a further 2-mile walk to reach King Harry Ferry where a 10-minute crossing concludes this part of the pilgrimage. Leaving Roseland behind, continue to the Feock Junction and then the village. Passing the church, continue for another mile along the road to the public footpath which avoids any excursion to Point. The path leaves a housing estate via a woodland track then joins the fore shore at a boatyard; after crossing a small bridge it eventually joins the Portreath Tramroad at Devoran. The Tramroad was opened in 1809 to serve the mining communities; it was initially horse-drawn between Devoran Quay and Portreath Harbour transporting ore and other minerals such as arsenic to the ports. All that remains at Devoran now is The Quayside Inn which at least offers a welcome rest to travellers. Beyond Devoran (about 4 miles) is the Bissoe Cycle Hire which also has a café. The pilgrimage leaves the Portreath Tramroad at Twelveheads where it continues to Carharrack. 

On reaching Carharrack look for the Route 3 marker on the right which forms the cycle route to Vogue; the walking route follows an uphill footpath (School Hill) to St Day and then drops down through Vogue. At Vogue take the left fork and walk about 1.5 miles to Gwennap Pit, (300 metres on the left of Route 3). John Wesley preached at this open air amphitheatre 18 times during the latter part of the 18th century and a service is still held here each Whitsun. The pit was naturally formed from mining subsidence during a period when the Gwennap Region was the richest square mile on the planet. Half a mile along the road from Gwennap Pit, turn right onto a public foot path which leads to Carn Marth. This bridleway can be muddy at times but turning right at Carn Marth leads onto a more solid, wider track. Bear left at the quarry and descend to Pennance Mine and the main road. Cross carefully and walk up the lane opposite to the Tresavean Tramroad. Continue along this trail to Churchtown where you can re-join Route 3 which crosses Carn Brea along the Great Flat Lode. At the Mineral Trail Office stay on Route 3 to continue into Camborne; this road enters the town via the railway station and a nice place to call into is the Railway Inn. There is also a Wetherspoon’s inn at the end of town near the Route 3 marker to Penpol.
The pilgrimage continues along an off road section next to the park which enters the village underneath a railway bridge. Route 3 makes its way from here to Hayle via Carnell Green, Gwinear and Coppertown.

To support Robin and help Cornwall Hospice Care please visit the Coppice Inn to make a donation or to join in with our fundraising events; these will be published on the Coppice website and at: www.robin-moore.co.uk
‘Robin Moore’s Pilgrimage of War and Words’ will also support Cornwall Hospice Care and an online justgiving page will be available next month at his website. In-depth Information about the Cornish Pilgrimage and other walks/booklets can also be found at his website.

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER CAMPAIGN

ROBIN MOORE’S PILGRIMAGE OF WAR AND WORDS

- Fundraising for Cornwall Hospice Care

and

 Prostate Cancer (MOVEMBER) – www.justgiving.com/Robin-Moore

Supported by the communities of Oundle and Lanner

Itinerary posted soon (after Cancer Research UK presentation – 21st September at The Rose & Crown, Oundle).

‘Fighting Cancer on Foot with Robin Moore’

 

CLICK ON: page marked Cancer Charities for full updated version.
ROBIN MOORE’S ANNIVERSARY WALK

On April 20th 2012, Robin Moore completed a walk of 400 miles from Cornwall to Oundle in honour of Cancer Research UK. Barely a month after having surgery for a hernia repair, Robin set off from Land’s End on a 3-day walk to Bodmin to test his fitness; from there he continued with camping equipment beyond the border and on to the Nene Valley taking a fortnight in all to complete. Cold, wet weather added to an already difficult task, though Robin was encouraged by the wonderful people he met along the way. The event mirrored his first ever achievement for the charity (then Imperial Cancer Research Fund) which he completed in May 1992 when locals at the Ship Inn raised nearly £600 for his effort. Although the walk was deemed a ‘one off’, it turned out to be the first of many! Throughout the decade Robin completed several walks, usually during his summer break from college/work, culminating with an epic 4,000 mile trek around Great Britain for the Macmillan Nurses which raised over £20,000 for the cause.

THE STORY (brief historical overview)
Since then, the expedition walker/travel writer has completed 25,000 miles (pilgrimages/ charity walks) and has raised/contributed about £100,000 to Cancer Charities during that time.  As a challenge walker who enjoys testing himself on demanding journeys, usually with limited support, Robin has an added interest in writing books/diaries and is in the process of developing a new website about his adventures. This work has been inspirational to many people who have in turn stepped forward to meet their own challenges; the books also go a stage further in helping to promote many of these worthy causes. Over half the walks have been completed for charity, and significant amounts have been raised for cancer research / local hospices who Robin continues to support. Robin has also been a major fundraising catalyst abroad; working as a volunteer for organisations in the Commonwealth, he has helped develop fundraising projects/ideas. In the last decade, he has walked whole countries raising the profile of charities with media coverage and distribution of leaflets/donation envelopes which he delivers each day to help create awareness.

THE PILGRIMAGE PROJECT
More recently, in the last few years he has dedicated time to developing Pilgrimages back in the Nene Valley (Oundle) and his family’s home in Cornwall. The projects have been set up in honour of regional hospices who Robin works closely with. The walks so far have raised several thousand pounds plus additional funds from spin-off events. With growing support from the communities, these events look destined to become major fundraising activities in the future.

SPARE A MOMENT FOR A MAN OF THE ROAD
‘In the last 20 years as an endurance walker, my only regret is not raising more money for charity. The great effort I put in to walking these distances never seems to be rewarded accordingly by the public who take for granted that I will always succeed!! Having grown up in the small communities of Oundle and Carharrack in Cornwall, it has proved difficult to obtain substantial support for one fundraising walk per year. In addition, I have to fund my own expenses through work, family, friends and corporate help so that I am in no way a burden to the charities I represent, (I have donated £40,000 to the cause to date). The greatest donation is time; the charity walks are the end product. The time spent at home on a computer promoting charities/organising averages over 20 hours per week. Aside from the financial logistics of each walk, comes the day-to-day management of the workload which is a barrier in itself. Each day on the road requires media interviews, which are necessary to give the charities good exposure: this sometimes incurs 16 hours of effort. Over the years, my local support has still been great despite the repetition of it all, but as a one-man army operating beyond the realm, my limitations are exposed. It is illegal to ask the public for money and so I have to rely on leaflet/donation forms distribution, sponsor forms and more recently an online ‘Just Giving’ page; funds handed into charity shops, or sent to a regional office without my reference will not be credited to me.
 Life on the road with a backpack and no support crew usually means a long day (10-15 hours) in hazardous circumstances where my main concern is about my safety; then water, food and shelter. There are days of loneliness and times when the job does not seem gratifying, though people in general are kind and hospitable; some of whom have become my friends. Others send money in the gift aid envelopes, and the support for local charities back home is excellent, giving me the incentive to carry on to the next level. ‘As a free spirited person, who loves travel, I find it rewarding to have helped so many charities in the last 20 years, though I must add there are times on the road when it feels a bit like serving penance!!’
 
SUMMARY
Robin has completed 12 walks in excess of a thousand miles – eight of which were done in honour of Cancer Charities.
Longest walk – 4,000 miles around Great Britain completed in 125 days.
4 Walks over 2,000 miles.
A Walk around the Kingdom (England).
The Barmy Army Walk (Cricket Road Show Tour of the Country).
Cape Reigna to the Bluff  (New Zealand)
A Walk across the Continent (Ireland/Mediterranean).

1992 – 2002
In the first decade Robin walked 11,500 miles.
8 walks for charity (Cancer Research and Care).
From 1998-2002,
Robin has written/Published 4 books.

2002 -2012
Robin completed 13,300 miles.
10 walks in honour of Cancer Research and Hospice Care.
1 Walk for Mbekweni Township in South Africa.
In this last decade he has written/published 14 books.

VOLUNTEER WORK OVERSEAS
SOUTH AFRICA
Working with Merwe Genis, the Barmy Army and the Cape Cricket Academy, Robin’s goal is to help raise funds for youth cricket in the Western Cape. ‘As a founding member of the Barmy Army I hope we can hold charity cricket games at the Provincial ground (Boland Park) on future tours to raise funds for the township (Funds can be raised from match fees/entrance to the ground). Our coaches from Oundle Cricket Club have been instrumental in helping Merwe realise his goal and our concerns now lie with maintenance and support from public donations to ensure youth cricket has a future in South Africa. I hope to be walking to raise awareness before the next England tour takes place when we will set up a Trust for cricket equipment.’ A section dedicated to Mbekweni will be posted on the new website later this year- this will include News Archives -2010.
 
NEW ZEALAND
Working as a volunteer for the New Zealand Cancer Society gave me a great opportunity to spend the summer season as a National Fundraising Campaigner walking the length of the country to promote the charity and help them raise millions of dollars.
To celebrate my anniversary I hope to return to New Zealand over the next twelve months (December/January) to walk the West Coast of the South Island in honour of the Cancer Society. We will initiate our fundraising campaign in Otago which will be supported by Pete Donaldson from Dunedin.
For more details contact:
For details about the New Zealand Cancer Society:

OTHER ORGANISATIONS
Barmy Army – as a passionate cricketer, Robin has occasionally combined cricket and walking, representing the Barmy Army on a couple of occasions when he was able to raise valuable awareness and several thousand pounds for hospice care and research. His work with the Barmy Army also includes the fundraising initiative he has helped to set up for Mbekweni Township in Paarl, South Africa.

FUTURE CHARITY WALKS
New Zealand -South Island Walk – the Cancer Society of New Zealand.
Australia – Sydney to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road – ‘Movember Challenge’.
USA – Mexico to Canada – Cancer Research.
South Africa – Namibia to the Wine lands – Mbekweni Township.

FUTURE PILGRIMAGES
Pilgrimages serve as excellent training/character-building walks that embolden the spirit and mind.
Having completed Southern Europe (France, Spain, Catalonia and Portugal), Robin will continue to challenge himself on the Continent, walking Northern France, (the war graves), Belgium, Holland, Denmark and other countries in the EEC.
Discover more when Robin launches his new website where you can also download titles from EBOOKS on the opening page. Website available soon – see updates on Face Book.

DAIRY OF WALK
CORNWALL TO OUNDLE (Scheduled from April 2012)

Land’s End to St Ives
Sunny start, leaving the famous sign post around midday as all seemed quiet at Land’s End. The A30 was less accommodating with traffic looming at every corner though I was able to tick off the small communities safely enough as I made my way to Penzance. The centre of town was a busier episode with Market Jew Street rammed with tourists making the most of the holiday period. Beyond the town I walked the Gulval Road through Nancledra and Halsetown which was probably the shortest route to St Ives. On arrival at the Backpackers in St Ives I realised the Easter tourists were already in occupation as the narrow lanes became barely accessible. In the evening the pubs were lively too, though I was able to relax and enjoy a couple of pints before retiring.

St Ives to Carharrack
It was a wet and windy start as I made my way along the coast path through Carbis Bay and Lelant. Leaving the cliffs at Lelant Golf Course, I passed St Uny Church and a followed a lane into Hayle where I had a coffee at my friend Bunny’s Café. She took a sponsor form off me and from there I used the Cornish Way to Camborne which took in Gwinear, Carnell Green and Penponds. At Camborne I grabbed a pasty and continued by road through Tuckingmill, Pool and eventually Redruth. From here I used the Gwennap Pilgrimage to reach Carharrack.

Carharrack to Bodmin Parkway
Today was awful with heavy rain interspersing the sunny spells. Commencing along the Portreath Tramroad I had a reasonable passage to King Harry Ferry and once across the water I walked part of Route 3 as far as Caerhays. Then taking a country lane I walked to Palmassick and St Ewe where I photographed the lovely church and inn. The next stage continued along a busy road to the Heligan Gardens where I located a cycle track which led to Pentewen Holiday camp. From here I followed the river into St Austell. On leaving town I had a brief encounter with the Eden Project as the trail continued into Luxulyan Valley. The woodlands sheltered me from the heavy rain though eventually gave way to the country lanes which I followed to Lanlivery. Climbing the hills towards Bodmin I struggled against headwind and hale which later turned to torrential rain. It was quite dark as I embarked on the final miles for Bodmin and the road section was hazardous as water swept towards Lanhydrock. At the National Trust Building I turned right and followed the cycle route to Bodmin Parkway to conclude a rather abysmal day on the road.
 
Bodmin Parkway to Launceston
Resuming the journey I made my way to the top of Bodmin Moor and followed the Copper Trail through St Neot and the neighbouring villages as far as Tregadillet. The countryside was interspersed with old copper mines which were generally appealing to the many explorers I saw throughout the day. On reaching Tregadillet I camped at Brenda’s site and visited the Eliot Arms where I enjoyed supper and a couple of pints. This was the first inn I had stayed at when beginning my campaign as a charity walker way back in 1992 – thankfully it had changed little.

Launceston to Okehampton
Leaving around nine I walked into town and had coffee with Nick Crawshaw an old pal from School days and ex-native of Oundle. We had a good chat and after parting I set off along the old A30 to Lifton. It was an arduous day though thankfully there were opportunities to stop. The full journey was only 24 miles and yet I did not reach the Hostel at Okehampton until around 7pm. Once I was settled I managed to get fish & Chips for supper which was later washed down with a bottle of wine to end the day.

Okehampton to Tiverton
It was a lovely hostel set beside the railway station which was an added attraction and no doubt popular in summer months when it runs services between Meldon and Exeter. From here I walked into town and located my route for the day along the B3215 on the edge of Dartmoor.
Initially I enjoyed a good start along the Crediton Road passing the old railway line on a couple of occasions. No trains today but there were some decent views all around and at Bow I was able to use a quieter country lane via Coleford which gave respite from speeding traffic. Stopping at Crediton I managed a snack before heading off on the Tiverton Road which required a couple of hours intense concentration. Teatime traffic sped past at alarming speed yet thankfully I made my ground before nightfall and was fortunate enough to locate a guest house on Bridge Street which happened to be next to a Wetherspoons inn. Great – steak for supper!

Tiverton to Taunton
Using the Great Western Canal I enjoyed the morning session, though there were occasions when I got lost trying to pick up old sections of the route. As the afternoon drifted on I used the back roads to reach Wellington by which time my feet were very sore. It was a struggle walking to Taunton and on finding a Travel Inn I felt as though I didn’t want to press on any further. There were no vacancies here but they let me camp in the grounds so I was able to get warm and enjoy a meal in the restaurant.

Taunton to the Pound Inn, Wells
Leaving in the shadow of rain, I made my way out of the city and onto the A38/A361 to Glastonbury. The weekend traffic was intense and there were only a few villages to break up the monotony of the road. I stopped at the Cancer Research shop at Glastonbury for a photo which would commemorate 20 years of service to the charity campaign. Beyond here it was a laboured affair which saw me limp to the outskirts of Wells where I was allowed to camp in the pub yard at the Pound Inn and at least enjoyed good company, food and ale to wrap up the day.

Wells to the Wheatsheaf Inn (nr)Bath
It was desolate in Wells – every one must have been at church with the exception of those admiring the cathedral. It was wonderful to see the cathedral which probably ensures Wells remains the smallest city in England. Moving on I followed the old Bristol road almost to Bath stopping 5 miles short so as to stay at the Wheatsheaf owned by Ash who has become a good friend of Chris Mee and Jo who I know from Oundle. We all arranged to meet up and after a steak we enjoyed a few ciders. After Chris and Jo left, I kept the fire stoked up and bedded down for the night. Ash went home and left me to mind the inn; he has been busy renovating the place and has suffered some long days getting the place up to scratch.

The Wheatsheaf to Wootton Basset
After a full English breakfast with Ash and the chef, I bade farewell and was on my way to Bath (which was appropriately wet) – first joining the A4 and then following the canal towpath into the city centre. It seemed a long trek to the outskirts where I followed the A4 into Wiltshire; first passing Box Tunnel and later Chippingham which I reached around 4.30pm. The next stage along the Lyneham Road was a hazardous, wet episode and I was glad to divert to a country lane which led to Wootton Basset. Despite good progress I did not make it to the town much before dark and was glad to get a room at the Crown Inn. Later the landlady cooked me egg and chips and I was able to dry my kit and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
 
Wootton Basset to Shipton (Lamb Inn)
After a good breakfast my first objective was to bypass Swindon by walking first to Purton and then Cricklade. Stopping at Cricklade I enjoyed some milk and a sandwich and then embarked on a long section of the Thames footpath to Lechlade. This was a long, drawn out affair as the river meandered across miles of pastures and meadows with little interaction with village life until the final two miles of the journey. On arriving at Lechlade I was astonished how late it was- 3.30pm! I still had Burford to encounter and a chunk out of the Chipping Norton section too. Soldiering on with sore feet I made reasonable time to Burford and continued from there along the A361 to Shipton where, at the point of dusk, I camped at the cricket club, courtesy of the ground staff, and retired to the Lamb Inn for supper.

Shipton to Thorpe Mandeville (Northants)
It was a rush to decamp in the pouring rain though I was able to shelter my gear under the pavilion until ready to go. The roads were flooded on both sides today making my passage to Chipping Norton a torrid affair. Once in town I stopped for coffee and went to the bank to cash a traveller’s cheque. Continuing out of town a chap pulled up to enquire whether I had seen a young lad wondering the busy road. He would have stuck out like a sore thumb on a day such as this which could only have been savoured by a madman! It was dreadful all day and quite hazardous along the winding wet road. I made it to Banbury by 3pm and was glad of a meal at Wetherspoons. After a hot drink I made my way along the thoroughfare accompanied by an Asian lad who helped me find a better road for the evening walk into Northamptonshire. I was grateful for his help and after parting I used the Overthorpe Road to cross the border. From here I walked to Middleton Cheney where a local lady escorted me across the fields and onto the Thorpe Mandeville Road. With the help of a few more locals I was able to locate the appropriate footpaths across the agriculture to access the village and the idyllic Three Conies Inn. The landlord was very kind allowing me to camp and giving me a nice beef stew to warm me up. I chatted until closing time, drying off the wet kit whilst enjoying good company. We all hoped that one day my Oundle Pilgrimage would extend this far to the boundaries of Northampton where we would endeavour to support our local charities.

Thorpe to Northants Casuals/Nene Way
Setting off after coffee at the inn, I continued my quest along the Helmdon Road stopping for snacks at the grocer store in Sulgrave. It was a slow painful journey as I ticked off the villages en route which included Helmdon, Wappenham and Abthorpe. Stopping at a Macdonald’s by the main road junction, I had a burger and tea before heading into Towcester. Beyond the town I walked a footpath beside the A43 as far as Blisworth where I continued along the old Northampton Road. I had slowed right down by now with a badly swollen ankle and formidable blisters which hurt on every step. By nightfall I had followed the Nene Way out of town to Northampton Casuals Rugby Club who were kind enough to let me camp on their ground and join them in the bar. I had a meal later and retired to a warmer night under canvas.

Northants to Oundle.
Setting off to the tune of the morning chorus, I now had a fair chance of reaching Oundle today. The journey was not without pain, becoming a laboured affair along cycle routes and river bank as far as Wellingborough. From the Embankment the Nene path saw me clear of towns for a while and beyond Irchester I followed the old Nene Railway track all the way to Thrapston. By the time I entered town I was ‘wasted’- barely moving and caused enough concern for Gordon Marsdon (old cricket pal) to pull up and ask if I needed a lift! I explained my predicament and he praised my effort wishing me well for the trip to Oundle. Suffering from exhaustion prompted me to seek food and administer medical aid to my feet which were now throbbing. Amazingly, once on my feet I was like a new man and marched the last 8 miles along the main road in less than 2 hours reaching Oundle before nightfall. What an epic! My ankle was the size of a tennis ball but I still limped to the pub for a meal and a pint!

Online Giving Page
Available on facebook

EBOOKS
Titles available from new website will include:
Walking the Garden Route
The Camino Portuguese
Robin Moore’s Australia Walk
Robin Moore’s Barmy Army Walk
Robin Moore’s Great Britain Challenge Vol.1
A Pilgrim’s Journey
Coast-to-Coast of the British Isles vol.1
Oundle Walks
The Cornish Way Walking Guide
The Portreath Tramroad

NEW TITLES (Available now at Trek-Kits/Oundle School Bookshop)
Titles based on the Nene Valley.
The Oundle Pilgrimage Walk
The Oundle Pilgrimage Cycle Guide
The Oundle Pilgrimage Family Guide
A Pub Walk in the Nene Valley

Titles based in Cornwall
The Gwennap Pilgrimage
The Cornwall Pilgrimage (by Spring)

ORGANISATIONS AND CHARITIES ROBIN HAS REPRESENTED SINCE BETWEEN 1992-2012

CANCER RESEARCH UK
Robin completed his first walk for this charity: then known as Imperial Cancer Research Fund in 1992 when locals at the Ship Inn helped him raise over £500 for the cause. Money was handed over to Adam Baum who was the fundraising executive for the region at that time. Alltogether he has raised over £10,000 locally at Oundle and on national expeditions has helped raise a further £20,000 for the charities. These include: A walk around the Kingdom with Cornwall Radio which helped promote support for cancer research in 1996. Robin distributed over a hundred sponsor forms to places he stayed at en route, and it was estimated that £10,000 was raised in donations made to cancer research shops/establishments. A presentation for locally collected funds was also held at the Ship Inn, Oundle. Four cheque presentations from Robin’s walks were made there between 1992-1996.

Robin presented a cheque with Chris York and Billie Wilson to Cancer Research UK. The cheque represents money raised in Oundle for Robin’s Charity walk in South Africa.

In 2002 Robin was invited to walk for the Cancer Society in New Zealand to help raise their profile and promote fundraising across the country. Whilst off-shore, Janet Sherwood worked tirelessly distributing sponsor forms for Cancer Research UK to organisations/clubs in Northamptonshire in an effort to raise £10,000 for the charity. The charity and Robin owe a great debt of gratitude to Janet for all her kindness and hard work. Some of the organisations who backed the campaign still make annual donations to the charity in respect of Robin’s challenges and efforts of endurance.

MACMILLAN NURSES CAMPAIGN
Walking Around Gt Britain

With the help of John Woodcock, Robin endeavoured to raise £20,000 for the charity. ‘In fact if John had not been involved it was unlikely I would have even started!’ He found me accommodation for each night (125 in all), raised £5000 before I got going and delivered sponsor forms to each venue. Scotland was the most productive place with fundraising events held along the way; Brighouse Bay raised £1000 on the night. In other instances Macmillan representatives turned out to fundraise around their communities often collecting between £50-100. It felt good to know my walk had made a contribution to each region, and hopefully my efforts served as an inspiration to others. The walk around Great Britain took 125 days making it the fastest walk of its kind, averaging 36 miles per day(often carrying one/two packs weighing up to 40lbs.

Coast-to-Coast (UK)

‘A further walk was completed walking coast-to-coast from Gloucester to King’s Lyn; this should have been an excellent fundraising opportunity backed by volunteer collecters as I stopped at the Peterborough United ground to give an interview at half time in their match against Northampton. I can’t tell you how angry I was when I found out the chairman of Macmillans (a keen football fan who attended the match), failed to phone the council for permission to collect from the public!! I was gutted as were all our volunteers. It was not right that this guy wasted my time and money as well as making a fool out of me in front of 20,000 people. In the end all we handed over was a few hundred pounds collected from the Angel Inn, Oundle. I wouldn’t mind but these people get paid to do a job where as I have to spend my own money doing the walk – none of which is ever re-imbursed – if I did that there wouldn’t be a fat lot left to give to charity; I have to date spent over £40,000 of my own money helping charites/walking expeditions which provide them with free publicity and an opportunity to make plenty of money. If that particular chairman was a businessman he would have been fired for less!!’

BREAKTHROUGH BREAST CANCER

In 1998, Nina Barough invited me to join a group of girl power-marchers (70 plus for the night event) to walk the London Marathon. The event was a huge success raising over £100,000 illustrating the power of the media and fundraising in numbers. Since then, Nina who founded the charity, has become a National fundraising pioneer and well-respected ambassador.

CORNWALL HOSPICE CARE

Robin was invited to walk between the two hospices to raise awareness for the charity which was founded by nuns who provided special palliative care for terminally patients in Cornwall. He went a step further by walking round the whole of Cornwall raising money at Garden Parties and a pub crawl of Helston with Selina Tressider. Sine then he has raised thousands for the charity and has helped win support for new builds in Cornwall.

ST JULIA’S HOSPICE

Cheque Presentation at the Fox & Hound’s Comford. Project manager/charity walker Robin Moore and friends hand a cheque over to the executive from Hayle.

Robin founded the Cornwall Pilgrimage Project to help raise awareness/funds for hospice care in Cornwall. St Julia’s Hospice is one of the first charities to benefit from this; the last 2 presentations at the Fox and Hounds Comford have raised over £2000 for St Julia’s. We hope to have a good attendance at our Gwennap Pilgrimage Walk/fun day (first anniversary) on the August Bank Holiday Monday this year. Walking guides/passports are available at the Fox & Hounds, Comford; guides also available at Gwennap Pit and St Day Post Office.

CHILDRENS HOSPICE SOUTHWEST

Robin played a big role in promoting the fundraising for ‘Little Harbour’ the children’s hospice recently built at Pentewen near St Austell. His walk along the South of France and Spain was largely a media exercise; though his campaign in the west country raised over £2,000 for the charity. ‘The energy coursing through Corwall in 2009 was amazing; there were thousands of people all doing their bit for the hospice. It was great to be part of an important project as well as  inspiring others to participate and bond together for the good of these youngsters.’

SUE RYDER CARE (Thorpe Hall, Peterborough)

 The Oundle Pilgrimage was founded by Robin in 2010 to support Sue Ryder Care which remains his priority charity in the Nene Valley. Robin thought of the idea when friend and local barman Dean Ingram died of cancer at the age of 28. ‘Thorpe Hall has looked after many of our people from Oundle and its time we put them on the map in Northamptonshire. This annual event is a way of saying thank you to Thorpe Hall and putting something back into a worthwhile cause. Despite the sad circumstances associated with the job, we are all very grateful for the palliative care provided by these wonderful nurses.’ The Pilgrimage has only raised a few thousand so far but the spin off events since including ‘The Big Wigs’ challenge won by the Rose & Crown, realises a sum in excess of £10,000 raised in the last year.

PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS

Robin walked from the Gold Coast to Sydney for the Barmy Army during the last Ashes Test Series, promoting awarenss for prostate cancer. The Barmy Army raised over £20,000 on the tour and Robin’s local the Rose & Crown have since raised over a thousand for the charity.
It is hoped that Robin will dedicate his next walk in Australia to the charity and as well as representing the Barmy Army, he hopes to instigate fundraising in Melbourne on the next cricket tour. Cricket continues to play its part in helping the charity with many clubs this season hosting charity teas as a fundraising event over the summer months. Those interested in participating should contact: Chris Carter: 0208 222 126 

chris.carter@prostate-cancer.org.uk

CHARITY WORK OVERSEAS
THE CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND

Walking the length of New Zealand was an ideal way to see the place and market a major charity event during a crucial breakthrough period in research. They were delighted to have me on board to provide good media footage and a platform for fundraising. I had hoped to collect at the test match venues but the cricket sponsors would not allow it. I was permitted to display a banner and still received donations upto around a thousand dollars; just think what we could have done with volunteers with buckets!! Sadly sport is about promotion/sponsorship and as with other countries it is illegal to ask members of the public for donations. I usually have a charity member with me or receive donations via a sponsor form when collecting from the public.

In 2008 I continued my travels in New Zealand walking around the North Island to promote the Relay for Life Events taking place along the way. My route covered all the main venues and I was able to give over 20 interviews either on air or via each local media dept.
In January 2013, I will endeavour to complete my travels around the country by walking the west coast of the South Island. Peter Donaldson from the Otago Times in Dunedin will organise the fundraising which will take place during the England Cricket. Any one wishing to contact Peter can do so via email: peterdon@xtra.co.nz

CANCA –SOUTH AFRICA

Walking coast-to-coast of South Africa was a tough experience and not very productive due to the lack of enthusiasm from the Head Office who heralded the idea as dangerous. Fortunately I was able to work with Bill van der Linde, the chief executive from the Garden Route and the Blue Whale Patrol offered to keep me company along the way. So between us we made a fist of it. Though not greatly successful in SA, the event at least raised £2,500 for Cancer Research UK derived from support for the walk back home.

THE MBEKWINI TOWNSHIP

Since then, Robin has returned to the country and walked the Winelands to help the Cape Cricket Academy and Merwe Genis School of cricket develop youth cricket at the township of Mbekwini. Robin hopes to arrange a Barmy Army cricket match at Boland Park on their next visit to South Africa and may yet participate in another walk to promote the good work of the Cape Accademy.

  THE McGRATH FOUNDATION

This is the Barmy Army’s leading charity abroad and they were successful in raising over £23,000 during the Ashes campaign 2011. My role was to spread the word through media during the latter stages of my east coast walk. I was also supposed to deliver a cricket bat at the SCG; sadly this was stolen whilst I was chatting in a chemist on the outskirts of Ballina!!

Any one wishing to support Robin’s walks are invitied to do so at the appropriate online justgiving pages.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THESE CHARITIES -’If every one did just two hours a week for charity -the world would be a better place.’