South West Coastal Path Walk

On the 18 August 2005 Crosse + Crosse Solicitors closed their offices for the day so they could walk the entire length of the South West Coastal Footpath. 

Peter Macdonald the firm's Senior Partner, in readiness for the walk said:

"The path is in excess of 600 miles extending from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset so this is no mean undertaking.  We are celebrating our 90th Anniversary this year and we can think of no better way to mark the occasion than to try and walk the entire length of the footpath to raise funds for Ellen Tinkham School in Exeter and Headway in Devon.  We would worldly extend a warm welcome to any who would like to walk with us on the day". 

This was supported by Tony Maidment of Ellen Tinkham School:

"The Ellen Tinkham School looks after those between the ages of 3-19 years of age with severe learning disabilities.  The school benefits from a wide range of specialist staff and extensive, well-equipped facilities.  Class groups are small, with a high staff:pupil ratio, so that children have plenty of support in order to achieve.

A group of about 30 from the school will be participating in one section of the walk as well as colleagues and friends of the school taking on other sections but there are still sections left to fill.  Why don't you come along and join us?  You will be very welcome and no doubt proud to be part of this wonderful event".

Myra Heno of Headway Devon said:

"Headway Devon is an independent registered charity working to provide essential services to people with brain injuries, their families and carers. We aim to break down social exclusion and aid reintegration into society for people whose hidden disability has caused their whole world to change - often without warning, leaving a maelstrom of feelings and issues to deal with. We provide day centres, respite, one-to-one enabling in the home or community, carer support, training and awareness raising. Our aim is to help each client to be as independent as possible, whilst also acknowledging the needs of families and carers. A number of people from Headway will be participating in the walk".

The walk was 630 miles which was broken down into more than 70 sections starting from Minehead and finishing at South Haven Port. Ellen Tinkham School provided up to 40 staff and 30 children the bulk of which walked along Budleigh Sea Front. Headway Devon provided similar numbers walking along Exmouth Sea Front. The South West Coastal Path Association also provided many walkers doing some of the farthest and hardest sections. And don't forget of course Crosse + Crosse staff and friends! It was an exhausting but enjoyable day out for worthwhile causes.

Following the walk, an auction was held at the Ellen Tinkham School which raised over £1000 and meant that we were able to make a total donation of £7020.65 which was divided between Ellen Tinkham School and Headway.

Take a look at the attached pictures for a glimpse of what was involved: