190 miles Coast to Coast: Keith's Epic 70th Birthday Trek

To mark his 70th birthday, Keith Rose from Petersfield set himself an epic challenge to walk the iconic 190-mile 'Coast to Coast' path through the stunning Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and North Yorkshire Moors.

Keith embarked on his journey with a clear purpose:

"As I take on a challenge that I will enjoy, I want to help those who would never have that luxury. I think Children on the Edge are a good example of what a small organisation can achieve: their work with refugees also resonates with some of my own family’s history."

The Adventure Begins

Keith set off on his trek on 7th May, walking with his daughter Catherine Elizabeth. Starting at St Bees Head they headed inland into the Lake District. After two days of walking Catherine Elizabeth left Keith at Grasmere.

Day three saw Keith conquering Kidsty Pike, the highest point on the walk at 780m. This 16-mile stretch, with 1069m of ascent and descent, took him seven and a half hours to complete. Keith told us that it was one of the hardest and most demanding days of the trek.

During the 15 day challenge, Keith navigated moors, crossed the Pennines, camped alongside the River Swale and visited the 4th highest pub in the country.

Challenges and Triumphs

The trek wasn't without its minor mishaps. Keith's fleece went missing on the very first day, his matches got damp, so he was unable to light his camping stove and whilst carrying three litres of water, his water bladder sprang a leak but with a little assistance from fellow walkers along the way Keith was able continue his challenge.

A Victorious Finish

On May 22nd, Keith completed the final five miles along the coastal cliff tops, arriving at the end point at Robin Hood's Bay. Where he marked the occasion by wetting his boots and throwing a pebble he had carried from the Irish Sea at St Bees into the North Sea. He then signed the register for those who have completed the Coast to Coast Challenge and enjoyed a celebratory pint. He thanked everyone who followed his journey and supported him along the way and told us how delighted he was to have surpassed his initial fundraising goal of £1,000, raising an impressive £1,145 for Children on the Edge.

If you’re celebrating a milestone birthday like Keith and want to help make a difference, take a look and see how you can get involved and support Children on the Edge.