On Saturday 6 June, farm worker Kieran sets out on an ambitious and awe-inspiring challenge: an 18-day cross-country walk on foot, travelling 320 miles from our farm in Bath all the way to our farm in Skipton.
Kieran is taking on this incredible challenge in support of our Challenge For Change fundraising appeal, raising vital funds so that more young people can experience life-changing support through residential experiences on our farms.
Kieran’s Route
After his departure from Jamie’s Farm HQ at Hill House Farm near Bath, Kieran will pass through Jamie’s Farm sites at Lower Shockerwick, Monmouth and Hereford, before setting out on the long walk to our farm in Skipton.
Each day, he’ll be accompanied by a different member of the Jamie’s Farm team, offering moral support, companionship, and the spirit of Jamie’s Farm to keep him going.
Follow Kieran’s progress
On this blog we’ll be posting updates of Kieran’s progress. You can also follow his progress on our social media channels on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
As well as sponsoring Kieran, you can help and show your support by liking, sharing and commenting on our posts – help us spread the word!
Latest Updates
Sunday 14 June: Today, Kieran and his fellow comrades hit the halfway point of his incredible challenge! Walking from Bromsgrove to Wolverhampton, he started the day with Jack before being joined at lunchtime by co-CEO Jake, who gave them a warm welcome to the West Midlands – where he grew up. The route brought some of the toughest moments so far. Long canal tunnels, dark and wet, tested resilience. At one point, a planned path had to be abandoned completely to avoid some particularly hostile cattle. The day ended on a special note: a beautiful home cooked meal at Jake’s parents house, courtesy of Jake’s mum (widely known as a brilliant cook!). As we reach the halfway point of Kieran’s journey, we’re thrilled to have hit 30% of our fundraising target. A huge thank you to everyone who has donated and encouraged Kieran along the way, its making a real difference and helping him carry him all the way to Skipton.
Saturday 13 June: The route from Worcester to Bromsgrove brought a welcome lift, with improving weather and Jack joining Kieran for the day. Tish and Peter walked with them for a while before Kieran and Jack struck out on their own. Somewhere along the way, Kieran unveiled what may become his trademark move – a heel spin mid walk! After a long day, spirits remained high, helped by a very comfortable hotel at the end. A well-earned rest before the next push.
Friday 12 June: A meaningful shift today as Kieran walked from Ledbury to Worcester alongside Tish and Peter. For the first time, he covered longer stretches on his own, with Tish and Peter catching up with him along the route. There was space for reflection as well as some brilliant conversation. Tish spent time talking with Kieran about what’s driving him and how Jamie’s Farm has shaped his journey.
Thursday 11 June: Today, Kieran set off from Hoarwithy Bridge heading towards Ledbury on what turned into a big day on the road. He was joined by Octavia, along with Mud the terrier – who quickly took up Kieran’s generous offer of being carried stretches along the way! With plenty of snacks keeping everyone going, it was a long but upbeat day. Good company, good humour and a four-legged companion made this a memorable leg, and a real boost as Kieran continues north.
Wednesday 10 June: Kieran set of with the wonderful Emily and Marguerite for day 5 of his trek up to Jamie’s Farm Skipton. The team left our Hereford farm in high spirits with the sun shining for them as they began the walk to Hoarwithy. Despite the intermittent rain showers they were still able to enjoy the beautiful views of the Hereford countryside and a well-deserved lunch break at the pub!
Tuesday 9 June: Kieran was accompanied by Ianto, farm manager at our Hereford farm, as he embarked on the next leg of his epic journey – Duffield’s Farm to Lower Wernddu Farm (Jamie’s Farm Hereford). Despite tackling some wet weather and climbing over far to many stiles, the intrepid duo still managed to enjoy some spectacular views and even reached an elevation of 3000 feet!
Monday 8 June: This morning Kieran was joined by Bronny, Horse Specialist from our Monmouth Farm, and dog Podders, for his day 3 trek from Chepstow to Duffield’s Farm. After leaving the town behind, the intrepid team discovered a Giant’s Cave, the Eagle’s Nest viewpoint and took in spectacular views of the Wye River, before trekking up the steep hill to Duffield’s, where they received a warm welcome from the team.
Sunday 7 June: Kieran set off from Chipping Sodbury, accompanied by other Jamie’s Farm’ers Alice, Sarah and later, Elly. After a couple of wrong turns(!), traversing a golf course, and negotiating fields of Belted Galloway cows, the team got back on track, and reached the exciting point of crossing the Severn Bridge before ending the day’s walking in Chepstow.
Saturday 6 June: And he’s off! An enthusiastic crowd of staff, friends and family waved Kieran and Jamie off from Hill House Farm. 20 minutes later they chalked up their first stop at Jamie’s Farm, Lower Shockerwick. Next, it’s off towards Chipping Sodbury where they will end day 1.
Wed 3 June: Kieran’s all packed and ready to go. Everyone here at Hill House are busily making signs to show Kieran our support. We’re all so excited for Saturday!
