A Mighty Fine Adventure!

Steve Russell dons his hiking boots for an epic charity trek through Northumberland.

When I signed up for the annual Macmillan Mighty Hike along the beautiful Northumberland coastline, I knew I would face some challenges. After all, twenty-six and a half miles of hiking is no mean feat for a man whose most vigorous exercise comes in the form of a passionate, latenight MC Hammer tribute act on the region’s dance floors. However, little did I realise that along the way I’d be forced to channel the quiet courage of the ill-fated 8th Century monks of Lindisfarne. Rather than rampaging Vikings though, my own nemesis was a far more sinister force, and believe me, foes do not come more formidable than the semi-aquatic cows of Embleton.

As my weary legs approached the majestic backdrop of Dunstanburgh Castle, it quickly became obvious that one of these rock-hopping bovines did not appreciate the cut of my jib. To the casual observer, it may have appeared that the animal was simply a tad peeved that I and my fellow pilgrims had interrupted its grass-munching, but I know a deadly battle of wills when I encounter one. Although deep in crisis, incredibly, I still had the presence of mind to hide behind my wife – she is a country girl after all – and the beast soon accepted my inevitable dominance.

Terrifying livestock encounters aside, the Mighty Hike was a wonderful experience. From registration to the day itself, the organisation was superb. The walk begins at Alnwick Castle, where the enthusiastic and friendly Macmillan team get you registered and ready to go. There was a quick chance to show off our Zumba skills in the musical warm up (mine are unparalleled as you can imagine) and then we set off in a swarm of Macmillan green, through Harry Potter’s schoolyard and into some of the most gorgeous and unspoiled coastal scenery Britain has to offer. The complementary catering kept everyone well-fuelled along the way, with regular pitstops offering a good variety of snacks and there were excellent hot buffets at both the half way point and the finish line at Bamburgh Castle, where you can also enjoy a celebratory glass of bubbly.

The event now attracts around 2500 people of all ages so it really is a challenge everyone can tackle, although it does involve eight to 12 hours of walking – depending on your fitness level – so it shouldn’t be underestimated. It’s wise to heed the training advice in the pre-event information pack, where you’ll also find practical advice on items to take with you on the day, as well as fundraising ideas (minimum pledge of £250 per person is required). If you fancy taking on a different route, there is also a Lake District Mighty Hike and six others in the series, spanning the length and breadth of Britain.

There’s a great spirit to the day, and unlike charity runs I’ve completed in the past which tend to involve a certain degree of solitary misery (plenty in my case), walking allows more of an opportunity to share a laugh with your fellow travellers and offer mutual encouragement when you begin to feel like extras from The Walking Dead in the last few miles. There were also plenty of well-wishers along the route who helped to get us over the line.

Macmillan are a wonderful charity offering emotional, physical and financial support to those affected by cancer from the moment of diagnosis, so why not do something mighty in 2020 and get involved in this brilliant event.