Cornwall Welcomes Fundraising Hero, Claire Allen, As She Strides Towards Land’s End

Cornwall welcomes fundraising hero, Claire Allen, as she strides towards iconic Land’s End, aiming to be there tomorrow, marking the halfway point of her extraordinary 5,000-mile trek around the coast of Great Britain. At 45 years old, the Bristol-based Charity Communications professional embarked on this journey from John O’Groats on 8th August 2023, aiming to raise £25,000 for homelessness charities, Only A Pavement Away and Shelter.

Claire’s journey is not just a test of endurance but a mission fueled by a deep-seated concern for the homelessness crisis in England, which has seen a 14% increase over the past year, affecting at least 309,000 people. Inspired by previous coastal challengers like Elise Downing and Christian Lewis, Claire took a sabbatical to focus on this cause, carrying her essentials and relying on the generosity of strangers and businesses for accommodation.

Reflecting on her experience, Claire shared, “Homelessness is a visible crisis in every town and city I’ve passed. It’s a condition no one chooses, and it’s been eye-opening to see the world from the perspective of those without a fixed abode.” Her journey has been marked by challenges, including severe weather, health scares, and unexpected wildlife encounters, yet her spirit remains undeterred, driven by the support and small joys she encounters daily.

Claire’s passage through Cornwall has been a highlight of her walk, emphasising the region’s breathtaking landscapes and the unmatched kindness of its people. From the hospitality at Top House Inn to the support from local taxi services and encounters with inspiring individuals like Jo and Andy, Cornwall has offered a backdrop of beauty and community spirit. Lizard Point, in particular, stood out as a natural marvel that photos can hardly capture. “It’s been a privilege to see so much of Cornwall’s coastline and to notice the way the land and the sea changes as you travel. A particular highlight so far has been seeing Lizard Point – Photos simply don’t do its beauty justice!” Claire went on to say “This walk has been one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done, but being able to see the incredible natural beauty of Cornwall up close and experience the kindness, generosity and positive-spirit of Cornish locals has made it that much easier for me. This won’t be the last I see of Cornwall, even long after my walk has finished.”

As Claire approaches this significant milestone, she not only brings attention to the plight of the homeless but also showcases the best of human kindness and the stunning diversity of the British coastline. With over £6,000 already raised, her journey is a testament to the impact one individual can make, fueled by determination and the support of the community.

Looking forward, Claire’s adventure will continue towards Bristol, her hometown, with the finish line expected in August 2024. Her journey can be followed on Instagram, and donations can be made to support her cause via her JustGiving page.

Cornwall has played a pivotal role in Claire’s mission, offering not just a scenic passage but a source of inspiration and support. As she moves forward, the memories of Cornwall’s coastline and its people will undoubtedly fuel her resolve to complete this remarkable journey.