Kent Director to hike 96 miles across Scotland for charity

A Tunbridge Wells man is hiking 96 miles across Scotland, from the lowlands to the highlands, in just seven days, for a charity close to his heart.

Mark Foxwell, 40, a Director at Sharp Minds Communications, is walking the West Highland Way from Glasgow to Fort William, to raise money for Papyrus, the leading suicide prevention charity for young people.

Mark is hoping to complete the solo hike in seven days, ending the expedition with a climb up Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK standing at 4,411 feet high.

“I wanted to support Papyrus and raise awareness of suicide prevention in Kent. I deliberately chose the walk because you have to travel across the lowlands and into the highlands. This is to remind people that low times in your life do end, things do pass, and you’ll soon find yourself in a higher and better place,” said Mark.

Ged Flynn, CEO of Papyrus, said:

“We are delighted to have Mark showing his support and raising money for Papyrus. It’s people like Mark who can really make a difference to those that need help and support.”

With the pressures caused by the Cost-of-Living Crisis and financial uncertainty, Mark decided to give back to those who may be struggling.

“I have had my own personal struggles over the years. However, bad times do pass and things do get better.”

According to the Office of National Statistics’ latest report published in 2022, the suicide rate in Kent is above the national average, with 11.7 per 100,000 people compared to the UK’s average of 10.4 per 100,00 people. In Kent, Maidstone saw the most cases at 60, followed by Thanet at 53.

Mark added:

“More needs to be done to help. My hope is that we, as a community, join together to work towards a zero policy. I hope that my hike builds further awareness and unites us to prevent suicide in Kent.”

Mark will be starting his hike on Monday, May 29. If you would like to make a donation visit his JustGiving page.

For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK on 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org.