Tom's epic Welsh journey raised thousands

Tom Davies left his home at Presteigne on July 26 last year with a target of raising a pound for every mile. But he smashed that target and eventually his fundraising reached £6,700.

In "A Welsh Wander - An Epic Trek Right Around Wales" he recounts his journey, his experiences, the magical landscapes, and the many kind and friendly strangers he met, who often made donations.

"During my years of teaching my maternal grandma developed Alzheimer's and while in the middle stages of the disease passed away very suddenly," said Tom.

"Two years later my maternal grandfather was diagnosed with vascular dementia. Seeing two people who I love very dearly afflicted by such a personal and confusing illness inspired me to begin fundraising for the Alzheimer's Society."

He hit on the idea for his challenge of circumnavigating his home country in one go, carrying everything he need to survive in his loyal backpack, which he named Wilson, complete with a trusty tent which never let him down.

His daily online blog - on which he draws for the basis of the book - eventually took 26,500 hits.

"My Welsh wander has been the single greatest experience of my life. I've seen so many breathtaking sights, had some incredibly special moments and battled through some tough ones too.

"I hope it will inspire people to explore the countryside on foot and learn new things about the area they live in as well as making them want to visit other corners of the incredible country that is Wales."

The book, which includes practical tips and checklists for anyone thinking of taking up long distance walking, is published by Y Lolfa and costs £12.99.

It is being launched in Presteigne in late June in the company of Tom Davies and Derek Brockway.