Selby Resident's Monumental Coastal Trek for Marine Conservation
Blue, a 51-year-old woman from Selby in North Yorkshire, is undertaking a remarkable solo walk around the entire geographical coastline of the United Kingdom to support two marine conservation charities. To date, she has covered an impressive 4,233.87 miles over 247 days, utilizing her annual leave from work to complete the north, east, and south coasts of mainland Great Britain, along with numerous islands.
A Unique and Challenging Journey
Her approach involves alternating between clockwise and anticlockwise directions in a continuous line, always resuming from her last stopping point. This method keeps the sea alternately on her left and right, adding variety to the trek. Blue has nearly closed the gap on Britain's west coast, having recently reached Weston-super-Mare in North Somerset after conquering the gruelling South West Coast Path and sections in Aultbea, Achnasheen, Scotland, heading southward. She has walked almost all of the recently inaugurated King Charles III England Coast Path.
Future Plans and Fundraising Efforts
Her upcoming stints include a 15-day walk at Easter on the north-west coast of Scotland, starting from Aultbea and moving south, then up Skye's east side. In May, she will return to Somerset, visiting Flat Holm island, before continuing towards Bristol and crossing the Severn Bridge into Wales, aiming to finish at Port Talbot. Blue is fundraising for Surfers Against Sewage and Sea Changers, having raised £7,369 so far, split equally between the two organizations. She is passionate about campaigning, taking action, and raising awareness for the restoration, preservation, and protection of rivers and seas for all species.
Blue shared her motivation, stating: "During my treks I have become increasingly aware of the perils endangering our oceans, marine life, coastal communities and climate. I have seen first-hand some of the great work my chosen charities have done, and I want to help by contributing as much as possible to their future projects."
Self-Funded Challenge with Community Support
This challenge is entirely self-funded, covering all travel to and from start and finish points, accommodation, sustenance, and equipment. However, she has received occasional kindness from people and businesses offering rooms, meals, or donations in lieu of payment. Andrew often serves as her support driver, dropping her off at start points each morning and picking her up at the finish. Sponsorship from NorthLink Ferries provided half-price passage for two trips to complete the Orkney Islands, and Red Funnel ferries enabled her to walk around the Isle of Wight coastline during a Christmas break. She continues as a brand ambassador for Bridgedale, who supply her with hiking socks.
Long-Term Goals and Environmental Observations
Annually, Blue aims to complete significant sections, with an estimated total completion time of five to ten years for the entire UK coastline, including as many islands as possible and Northern Ireland. She walks up every river and estuary to the nearest crossing point, often venturing far inland, and only uses boats for islands inaccessible by bridge or causeway. Averaging 20 miles per day in all weathers, she has witnessed incredible sights and formed connections with fellow coast walkers.
Reflecting on her experiences, Blue noted: "Our coastline is so utterly diverse, and many of the amazing things I've seen are inaccessible unless you walk to them. I've also witnessed the dramatic acceleration in coastal erosion. Most shocking of all being along the southern cliff line on the Isle of Wight. Plastic pollution never ceases to shock me. I see the enormity of it as I'm walking along our coastline and roadsides. The effects of pollution, plastic, raw sewage discharges etc on wildlife in our rivers, lakes and coastline are catastrophic."
Heartwarming Community Engagement
Despite the challenges, Blue finds immense positivity in the support, kindness, and generosity from friends, family, and strangers. Many people stop to ask about her challenge after seeing her fundraising top, often making donations that are added to her Just Giving total. This community spirit has been a heartwarming aspect of her journey.
