A couple from Somerset is preparing to embark on a remarkable journey to walk the entire coastline of mainland Great Britain in a continuous two-year circuit. Mike Langley, 73, and his partner Zoe Langley-Wathen, 54, aim to cover approximately 7,000 miles (11,265 km) while raising £10,000 for the Dorset and Somerset Ambulance (DSAA). Their trek is set to begin in October 2023 at South Haven Point in Studland, Dorset, as they head anti-clockwise around the coast, returning to their starting point.
Mr. Langley, who hopes to become the oldest person to complete this challenge, expressed his determination, stating, “I know this won’t be easy, but I’m determined to prove that age doesn’t have to hold you back.” His partner, Ms. Langley-Wathen, emphasized the transformative power of long-distance walking. “It has changed my life, and I want to encourage others—especially women in midlife—to see what they’re capable of,” she remarked.
The couple’s motivation to support the DSAA stems from the critical role it plays in rural communities. During a recent visit to the airbase, Ms. Langley-Wathen was struck by the speed with which the crew can deliver medical assistance. She noted, “Knowing the service is funded almost entirely by donations, we wanted our walk to raise awareness and funds to help keep those helicopters flying. You never know when we or a loved one might need their help.”
The DSAA is the busiest air ambulance service in the South West of England, responding to nearly 3,000 missions annually. Each mission costs approximately £3,500, meaning that the couple’s fundraising goal of £10,000 could fund nearly three potentially life-saving missions.
Charlotte Humber, Supporter Engagement Officer for DSAA, praised the couple’s commitment. “Their dedication, time, and energy are not only helping to fund vital missions but also inspiring others to get behind our cause. We are truly grateful for their incredible support and for showing such passion and commitment to DSAA,” she stated.
As part of their fundraising efforts, the couple has launched a dedicated page where supporters can contribute to their cause. The charity is also in the process of raising the final £1 million needed to acquire and equip a second air ambulance helicopter. Humber explained, “A second helicopter will enable our air ambulance crew to reach more patients, strengthen operational resilience, and ultimately save even more lives.”
With their challenge set to begin soon, Mr. Langley and Ms. Langley-Wathen hope that their journey will not only break records but also highlight the importance of community support for essential services like the DSAA. Their adventure promises to be both a test of endurance and a powerful reminder of the impact that individual efforts can have on local healthcare.