Simon Richardson Embarks on 196-Mile Charity Trek
Simon Richardson, a dedicated member of The Salvation Army church in Morriston, has set off on a gruelling 196-mile walking challenge from Swansea to London. The trek, named 'The Big SA Walk', aims to raise £2,500 to support vulnerable people in the local community. Richardson expects to complete the journey over two weeks, averaging 18 miles per day in the first week and slightly less in the second, with a rest day near Oxford.
Route and Support
The route takes Richardson from Morriston through Abergavenny, Ross-on-Wye, Gloucester, Oxford, and Maidenhead before reaching London. He will visit The Salvation Army’s UK Territorial Headquarters in south London and finish at the International Headquarters in the City. Fellow Salvationists will host him along the way, and a friend from church is assisting with welfare and coordination to ensure safety.
Personal Motivation and Training
Richardson, originally from Northamptonshire, now lives in Aberdare and commutes weekly to Morriston, where he plays the horn in the church band and serves on the church council. His family connection to The Salvation Army spans over five generations, dating back to 1867 when his great-great-grandfather joined The Christian Mission. He said: "Back in 2008, my mother and I walked the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path in memory of my father. This new challenge grew out of that experience." Richardson, who works for a local supermarket, trained hard by climbing five peaks at Bannau Brycheiniog, including reaching the summit of Pen-y-Fan at sunrise.
Community Support and Donations
Major Stephen Brevitt, leader of The Salvation Army church in Morriston, commented: "We are proud of Simon for taking the initiative and having the courage to undertake such a task. We applaud his spirit and dedication as he steps out to raise much needed funds to support our work with vulnerable people." Donations can be made online via his JustGiving page titled 'The Big SA Walk'.
