350 Miles For Suicide Prevention

Community and Charity 350 MILES FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION

Sgt George Downey, ACS

9months of intricate planning & 7 months of training all came down to a mild summer’s morning in Glasgow at 0800 on Sun 24 Jul. That is where and when Sgt George Downey and his wife Cindy took their first steps on a 350 mile walk over 14 days to raise awareness and funds for Hectors House Suicide Prevention Charity in memory of Pat Kenny who took his own life in Feb 2020.

The first 2 days were selfsufficient as the support team didn’t join them until day 3, which meant George and Cindy having to carry additional equipment. The morning of day 2 was a shock as their bodies adjusted to getting up and walking another 25 miles, whilst asking themselves what we were doing. It was in these early stages that Cindy developed large blisters that would plague her for the entire journey.

Leaving Scotland and entering the Pennines and Yorkshire Dales were toughest physically, however easily the most stunning scenery. No one told them that as you leave the Yorkshire Dales you must cross the Yorkshire Moors. A highlight was the point when they were triangulated by the Pennines, the Yorkshire Dales & the Lake District; a glorious setting. George and Cindy were fortunate to have Sgt Andy Thompson from ACS following their journey on the second week from Bradford to the end location in St Neots Cambs. Andy provided morale

at their lowest ebbs and great photography, along with stunning drone footage which was used on both BBC & ITV news coverage of our exploits. The last leg from Oundle to St Neots was emotional as they were joined by friends and family at different stages and the Search and Rescue Team that had helped to locate Pat when he was missing. There were large crowds at the finish line and a wonderful surprise as the founder of Hectors House Rob Stringer was there to greet them.

Another highlight was stumbling upon RAF Langer which launched Lancaster’s in WWII and was a Battle of Britain Airfield, George and Cindy were welcomed by the current owners and given a brief history, along with refreshments and a kind donation.

Hectors House was set up in memory of Hector Stringer who took his own life aged just 18 in 2011. They work tirelessly to prevent suicide and mental health stigma, through education awareness and support. So far, George has raised over £7000 for Hectors House, if you would like to donate, scan the QR code below.

The route.

George & Cindy on the walk.