When the rest of us were busy getting back to work at the start of this year, two adventurous souls embarked on the most remarkable journey to raise awareness for Suicide
Prevention and Mental Health Support. Anthony Ing and Paul “Chuck” Norris covered an astonishing 162 miles along the UK Canal Coast to Coast Trail, facing relentless challenges, battling the elements and pushing their limits in the name of a crucial cause.

The journey began in Bootle, Liverpool, with the wind as their constant companion and rain soaking them to the bone for hours on end every day and night. With only 3-4 hours of sleep per night and temperatures dropping well below zero on one chilling night, the boys pressed on, determined to make a difference.

Navigating through Burscough, Wigan, Burnley, Skipton, Leeds, and finally reaching Goole Dock, the trail presented over 90 lock portages, with a cheeky 21 smashed in one go in Wigan, as well as two tunnels one of which was 1 mile long under. Ducking and jumping many swing gates, laughter echoed as the friend’s faced challenges with good humour, overcoming canal blockages, lifting over gates, and dropping into stagnant water, all while carrying their 15kg paddleboards and spare water.

The most northern point, Gargrave, provided the tipping point of the uphill struggle, but the downhill from that point onwards offered brief respite. The journey was not without fantastic, unexpected surprises, including a lovely local paddler, runners, walkers joining and a few deliveries of chocolate brownies! We made new and supportive friends Daisy and Simone who travelled for three hours to bring smiles and potatoes to recharge the weary adventurers. And let’s not forget the paddling and outdoor community who turned up and cheered us on too.

The true test came in the form of a mentally and physically demanding 20 km canal section near agricultural fields. The boards felt like they were being sucked into the water, slowed down by agricultural run-off and sediment from relentless rain. Despite these challenges, the overflowing and bursting river Ayre still managed to remind us just how beautiful nature can be…

Completing the trail in 4 days and 4 hours, Anthony and Chuck caught the attention of ITV, social media pages and Strava Tracking Beacon as well as local newspapers.  Everyone who met them along the way cheered them on and kept them going to the finish line in Goole Dock.

The journey wasn’t just about conquering physical hardships; it aimed to capture thoughts and feelings, encouraging conversations about positive mental health management during the dark and cold winters when so many are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Through their inspiring adventure, these two friends not only raised awareness for a vital cause but also inspired others to talk openly about mental health, fostering a supportive community that extends beyond the water’s edge.