Man completes epic walk for dementia charity in memory of his mum

A 57-year-old man got his walking shoes on and completed an epic walking challenge to raise money for The Willows Dementia Hub, in memory of his mum.

Jules Tomlinson, from Littleborough, walked from John O’Groats to Land’s End, raising £3,593 for the charity, which provided care for his mum Kathleen, who lived with dementia and passed away in 2023.

Jules, a keen amateur walker, had always dreamed of completing the famous journey. However, his mother's passing inspired him to take on the challenge in her honour and raise funds for The Willows, which provided care and support for Kathleen during her battle with dementia.

Setting off from John O’Groats on 3 May 2024, Jules reached Land’s End after 76 days of walking, far ahead of his original estimate of four months.

Covering an average of 18 to 20 miles a day, he completed the walk on 17 July, racking up over 2.5 million steps in the process. Jules’ rapid pace saw him finish more than two months earlier than expected.

Reflecting on the achievement, Jules said: “It’s the hardest thing I have ever done. I met some of the best people and saw some of the most beautiful countryside that Britain has to offer.

"I am super chuffed to have raised money for The Willows Dementia Hub, a worthy cause – they supported my Mum with her dementia, so it’s good to support them back with much-needed funds. 

“Life is great, walk and be happy!”

Throughout his journey, Jules completed several iconic routes, including the John O’Groats Way, the Great Inverness Way, the West Highland Way, and most of the Pennine Way.

Despite the challenges, such as enduring heavy rain and waterlogged feet, he managed to avoid blisters. However, he admitted the walk took a physical toll, causing him to lose over a stone in weight.

He continued: “I wore out two pairs of walking boots. Carrying 13kg of equipment and supplies every day was exhausting, and my legs still ache.

"The ten and a half weeks felt like ten and a half years, but it was a positive and emotionally cathartic experience. Talking with strangers about my mum, her struggle with dementia, and her passing helped. Not one person was negative. Every day, all I had to do was get up at 6.30am and walk another 18 to 20 miles."

Gail Whitehead, chief officer at The Willows Dementia Hub, expressed her gratitude for Jules’s efforts. She said:  “We are so grateful to Jules for all his support and for taking on such a physical challenge. 

“Fundraising challenges like Jules’s make a real difference to our ability to support more local people living with dementia and those who care for them.”

The money raised by Jules will help The Willows Dementia Hub continue its work providing specialist care and support to those living with dementia in Rochdale and the surrounding areas.

The centre offers permanent residential places, 'Comfort Day' services, and the 'Willows at Home' service, which delivers bespoke care to people in their own homes, helping them maintain independence for as long as possible.

Jules’s mother, Kathleen Smith, attended ‘Comfort Days’ at The Willows Dementia Hub before her passing, making the cause especially close to his heart.

Jules’s incredible achievement has not only honoured his mother’s memory but also made an impact on dementia care in the local community.