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Jul 16, 2026 - Jul 24, 2026

The Road That Brought Us Here

This year, myself, my Husband and our very dear friends, Roy Smith and Susan Yule are setting out on a journey that means more to us than the miles alone might suggest. We’ll be walking around 145 miles from The Bluebird Boutique in Stanhope, County Durham to Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh, where our journey will end on a Friday night at a Luke Combs concert, singing (and legs allowing) dancing along with fellow country music lovers. We have named this walk 'The Road That Brought Us Here', because in so many ways that's exactly what it is. We’re doing this to raise funds and awareness for charities that support mental health and wellbeing, causes that have shaped us, our friendships, and the way we show up for one another. Along the road, we’ll be carrying our own stories and the stories of so many others. Like many people, we’ve known moments when life felt heavy, when the path ahead wasn’t clear, and when strength had to be found one step at a time. We’ve also seen the difference that compassion, support and understanding can make when it’s offered at the right moment. This walk is our way of honouring connection, friendship, community and the quiet courage it takes to keep going. Country music has been a thread that brought us together and held us in it's honesty, it's storytelling and the ability to hold both heartbreak and hope in the same breath. Ending this long journey together, at the Luke Combs concert, feels symbolic and it is a reminder that joy, release and togetherness can sit at the end of even the longest road. Every mile we walk is for those who are struggling in silence and for those who are still learning to ask for help. This walk is also to honour those who give their time and care to support others, every single day and for anyone who needs a reminder that they are not alone, and they never have been. If this journey resonates with you, we'd be so grateful for your support. Whether you donate, share this page, or simply hold us in your thoughts as we walk, you’ll be helping turn steps into hope, one mile at a time. You can view more information about our chosen charities by clicking on their logos or reading below. Funds raised will be split evenly between the charities and if you can, please select the Gift Aid option when making your donation. <br><br>SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, is a trusted source of support for serving personnel, veterans and their families in their time of need.  Funds raised for SSAFA will directly support the South West Durham Social Isolation and Wellbeing Group, which works to reduce loneliness and improve wellbeing in the local community.<br><br>Andy’s Man Club is a UK charity supporting men’s mental health through free, confidential, peer‑to‑peer support groups. They provide safe spaces where men can talk openly, feel heard, and know they’re not alone — helping to break down stigma and reduce isolation.<br><br>Ed Space IOM are trying to spread the word on the Isle of Man that "it's ok, not to be ok".  We need to get rid of the stigma surrounding having poor Mental Health and start talking to each other on how we are truly feeling.  No one should suffer in silence.<br><br>The Menopause Charity exists to ensure everyone understands menopause and the impact it can have. They provide trusted, evidence‑based information and support to help people talk about symptoms, access treatment, and make informed lifestyle and healthcare choices.