A devoted grandfather is preparing to take on a gruelling 100-kilometre walking challenge in memory of his beloved grandson. Tim Clayton will tackle the big event to raise vital funds for a Cumbria hospice that supported his family. The inspiring fundraiser will take place across the Peak District National Park on July 4.
At the age of 63, he is pushing himself to complete a mile for every year of his life. The challenge is in memory of his grandson, Alfie Reuben Daffin, who passed away aged just 12 in May last year. Alfie was well known in Appleby and lived with multiple disabilities, but he faced life with remarkable courage.
Tim said: “Alfie was the strongest, bravest and cheekiest little boy who lived with multiple disabilities, but took it all in his stride.” “For anyone who knew or met Alfie, he left a lasting impression and continues to hold a place in many people’s hearts.” Alfie was cared for at home by his parents, Chantelle and Richard, who made sure he had a life full of love.
Jigsaw Children’s Hospice played a crucial role in his final year, providing short periods of respite and vital support for his parents. This support became especially important towards the end of Alfie’s life, when the hospice also provided bereavement care. The hospice relies heavily on charitable donations to continue supporting people with life-limiting conditions and their families.
Tim hopes his challenge will help ensure that other families in Cumbria receive the same care and compassion. So far, he has successfully raised around £2,500 for Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw Children’s Hospice. Tim will join more than 2,000 participants at the event, which is one of the most scenic endurance tests in the UK.
People can walk, jog or run distances of up to 100 kilometres through rugged countryside and sweeping limestone valleys. The demanding event starts and finishes in Bakewell and attracts people from all across the country. Despite being based in Chesterfield, Tim chose to support a Cumbria charity because that is where his family lives.
As he prepares to take on more than 60 miles on foot, he hopes the Appleby community will get behind his fundraising effort. Donations to support the hospice can be made online via his fundraising page. Anyone interested in taking part in the walking event can find more information at the official website.
