Birmingham Friends to Hike 1,200 Miles in 60 Days in Memory of Their Grandparents

Two lifelong friends from Birmingham, Freddie Stange, 20, and Seth Jones, 19, are preparing to undertake an extraordinary challenge: hiking nearly 1,200 miles across the UK in just 60 days. Starting on May 1, they will journey from Land’s End in Cornwall to John o’ Groats in Scotland to honor their grandparents and raise funds for Dementia UK.

The pair, both warehouse workers from Longbridge, have been close since primary school and share a deep connection to the cause, having witnessed the devastating effects of dementia within their families. Freddie’s grandfather, John, who passed away in December 2023, battled Alzheimer’s disease for the last decade of his life. Freddie recalls John as an active walker and cyclist whose health steadily declined due to the illness.

Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia in the UK, impairs various brain functions, severely affecting patients and their families, as noted by the NHS. Seth’s grandmother, Beryl, who died in January 2024 at 93, also endured dementia. Seth describes her as a caring and resilient woman who fought the disease silently while continuing to bring joy to those around her. Caring for Beryl required significant dedication from Seth’s family, who provided support for much of the week before her passing.

For both young men, this hike is not only a physical challenge but a tribute to their loved ones’ courage. They plan to cover about 20 miles daily, bracing themselves for difficult weather and terrain as they traverse England and Scotland. The trip also coincides with Seth’s 20th birthday in June, which they hope to celebrate with a pub stop and a visit from Seth’s parents along the route.

Freddie shared how surreal it feels to finally begin the adventure and expressed optimism about their fundraising goals. The friends aim to raise thousands of pounds for Dementia UK, a charity providing specialist nursing care and support to those affected by dementia.

This journey is a testament to their enduring friendship, resilience, and commitment to making a difference in memory of their grandparents.