Marathon walker is ready for grand return

Mr Snook will cross the finishing line along the seafront on December 12 to complete his amazing journey on two feet around the British coastline.

He set off from the promenade on January 1. By the end of this week, he will have walked 3,900 miles in 333 days.

Mr Snook has left London behind and is striding along the Kentish coast around Sittingbourne as he heads towards the completion of his personal ambition.

A civic reception, a special presentation and a party await him in Bognor. The events have been arranged by the charity, Climb '“ Children Living with Inherited Metabolic Diseases, on whose behalf Mr Snook has raised money.

The former firefighter from Westergate has celebrated his 72nd birthday during his amazing trek and worn out three pairs of boots.

Amazingly, though, he has been soaked only 16 times and has never missed a day's walking through illness.

A keen walker, he was determined to conquer the coast of Britain on foot and raise funds for charity so others could benefit from his ambition.

He has raised more than 17,300. Climb will use the money to support families and fund research into the more than 700 metabolic diseases which affect 16,000-plus families.

Meeting a teenager in the final stages of a devastating metabolic disease that causes severe disability and premature death convinced him to back Climb.

"Because of the complexity and sheer number of metabolic diseases, Climb is not one of the best-known charities," he said.

"So I hope my efforts raise awareness of its fantastic work as well as funds. For those affected, the need for such support is great."

Mr Snook has been helped along his way by generous hospitality. He has been hosted by Rotarians, firefighters, Climb members and friends and the squadron at Kinloss as a former RAF serviceman.

Everyone who has met him has congratulated him on his amazing achievement and determination.

Climb executive director Steve Hannigan said: "We are amazed by the hospitality Colin has received along the way, including numerous individuals, and guest house and campsite owners waiving their fees.

"Colin deserves to achieve his twin ambitions of walking the coast of Britain and raising at least 25,000 for Climb.

"So, please help us help Colin reach this ambitious goal by encouraging friends, relatives and members of any clubs and societies you know to dig deep for this final push."

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