A determined fundraiser is urging others to lace up their walking boots and join him for an epic coastline challenge.
Christian Lynes has signed up for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices’ (EACH) Pier 2 Pier Norfolk event – this year taking place on Saturday, 6th June.
The 32-mile walk follows the popular Norfolk Coastal Path, starting in Cromer and finishing in Christian’s hometown of Great Yarmouth.
The 43-year-old took part last year and is bracing himself to do it all over again, while also encouraging others to sign up and join him.
“It was a fantastic experience and one I’d recommend to anyone,” said Christian.
“The support along the way gives you such a boost. As soon as I arrived, I was struck by the friendly, supportive atmosphere. There was a great vibe and real sense of togetherness.
“That feeling continued throughout the day, with all the marshals and volunteers beaming with smiles and ready with words of encouragement.
“The walk itself was tough on the body and covering such a long distance is certainly a challenge.
“However, it just added to the sense of pride and elation at the finish line, knowing you’d achieved something special.
“I was also very aware and mindful of the charity I was supporting, having been inspired by a group I saw near the start. They had soft toys attached to their rucksacks, which presumably belonged to a child.
“I found it a very moving sight, but it was also incredibly motivating. It drove me on when the going got tough.”
Christian, who works for builders’ merchant Travis Perkins, was one of the 49 people to take part in last year’s event and believes it is important to support EACH.
“EACH is a magnificent charity and one that deserves everyone’s support,” he said.
“It’s startling it receives so little government funding and must rely so heavily on fundraising and its retail operation.
“That’s not right, but at least events like this give the public an opportunity to do their bit and get involved.
“I haven’t been touched personally, but I do have an indirect connection as a work colleague and his family were supported at The Nook.
“I know from speaking to him that the quality of care was second to none and made such an enormous difference.
“People think of hospices as sad, harrowing places, but I know there’s lots of joy and happiness too. Being in a position to help put smiles on faces is priceless.”
To show your support and sponsor Christian, head here.
To find out more and book your place for Pier 2 Pier Norfolk, head here.
The EACH walk is one of three challenges Christian has set himself for 2026. He also plans to walk 1,000 and raise £1,000 for Nelson’s Journey – a Norfolk-based charity that supports bereaved children and young people – as well as taking on Macmillan Cancer Support’s Norfolk Coast Mighty Hike on 9th May.
He walked 46 miles from Cromer to Hunstanton last year and, as part of his recent training, trekked 40 miles along the Wherryman’s Way, from Norwich to Great Yarmouth.
