A retired police officer will be attempting to walk from London to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire this July.
Gary Cross plans to set off on July 23 from the National Police Memorial in London and will be walking along the canal towpath, all the way to the arboretum in time for COPS annual Service of Remembrance on August 1.
58-year-old Gary will be raising money for COPS and says he enjoys challenges that are unusual.
Gary said: “I believe that COPS is a truly worthwhile charity, that provides a remarkable support network for the families of fallen officers.”
He admitted the unique challenge, which he will be doing alone and will see him walking 20 miles a day, came to him while sat in a pub.
He said: “About 10 years ago, myself and my brother canoed from Tamworth in Staffordshire, to Central London for charity.
“We were sat in a pub by the canal dreaming up ideas for the next charity event, and it dawned on us that the perfect idea was right in front of us – the canal network. So, I thought why not walk it this time?”
When asked what he was most looking forward to, Mr Cross added: “Actually being able to finish the walk in one piece with both feet intact.
“I am also looking forward to meeting the COPS family at the end of the challenge at the National Memorial Arboretum.”
For more on the challenge, or to donate, go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gary-cross5.
