Phil Brown, a 65-year-old resident of Cheltenham, has completed an extraordinary 630-mile journey along the South West Coast Path, raising an impressive £27,000 for the Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice in memory of his late wife, Anna. This monumental feat took place over just one month, from May 31 to June 30.
Phil’s trek began in Minehead and concluded at Poole Harbour, coinciding with his daughter’s birthday. The route’s tough terrain featured a total elevation gain equivalent to climbing Mount Everest four times, making the challenge both physically and emotionally demanding. The South West Coast Path held special significance for Phil and Anna, as the couple had planned to complete it together.
Throughout his journey, Phil met many inspiring people who offered emotional support and donations upon learning the story behind his walk. Among them was Ruth, who lost her husband in 2016 and shared valuable perspectives on coping with loss. Despite several challenging moments, including painful shin splints during the final days, Phil remained determined to finish strong.
At the end of his journey, Phil was greeted by friends Rachel and Clive, who accompanied him on the last leg of the walk. The warm welcome included a celebratory drink, dinner, and a relaxing massage the following day. Reflecting on his achievement, Phil expressed relief and pride: “It was extremely emotional when I finished. I was just so pleased to have done it.” Thinking about Anna, he said, “She would have been amazed I didn’t injure myself and proud of how close Alex, Max, and I have become since her loss and the walk.”
Anna had passed away in January after a brief illness, receiving compassionate care at the Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice. Phil, along with his children Alex and Max, spent precious time by her side during her final weeks. “The care Anna received was truly wonderful,” Phil shared. “From the nurses and doctors to the volunteers, everyone was extremely caring and supportive.”
Phil’s fundraising efforts were buoyed by the generosity and encouragement of his friends and community. He extended heartfelt thanks to sponsors Ian and Janet McKenzie, Tim Gardiner, the Lilley Brook golf club team, Rachel Lewis who documented the journey on film, Polly who designed the t-shirts, as well as all those who walked with him, housed him, and donated. His children Alex and Max received special mention for their unwavering support.
The walk was a heartfelt tribute under the hashtag #fortheloveofanna, symbolizing Phil’s desire to keep Anna’s memory alive while supporting an essential local hospice. Phil urged others to consider fundraising challenges for Sue Ryder, emphasizing the vital role the hospice plays in the community.
Laura Jeffries, Senior Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, applauded Phil’s remarkable dedication: “We are absolutely bowled over by the amount Phil has raised and want to say a huge thank you and congratulations. Covering 630 miles on foot is an incredible achievement. It is thanks to supporters like Phil that we can continue providing vital care when it’s needed most.”