A County Durham man has begun his journey to take on one of the UK's hardest walks in a charity effort in memory of his late nan who passed away from cancer last month.

27-year-old Adam Wheeler from Barnard Castle has already begun his gruelling trek along the Cape Wrath Trail - a 230 mile walk from Fort William, along the Scottish Highlands and across to the most north westerly point in Britain.

Adam set off on his journey on Wednesday (May 29) and is hoping to take just two weeks to complete the route in memory of his late nan, Vera Douglas.

The Northern Echo: Adam pictured with his late nan Vera and grandad Ian Douglas.Adam pictured with his late nan Vera and grandad Ian Douglas. (Image: ADAM WHEELER)

Vera, a former teacher, sadly passed away in April aged 88 after she developed Acute Myeloid Leukaemia.

Any funds raised during Adams magnificent expedition will go towards Cancer Research UK - and he has already raised over £500. 

Adam said: "My nan always took an active interest in my walks and enjoyed keeping up with my progress as I posted updates and photos on Facebook.

"I want to raise as much money as possible for Cancer Research UK in her honour."

He added: "I expect this will be one of my biggest challenges as it’s widely regarded as Britain’s toughest hike because of its remoteness and the changeable weather.

"It’s also infamous for a lack of signposts and in some areas, there isn’t even a path – which means I could end up walking farther if I go off course!"

The Northern Echo: Adam with partner Lucy Hinch and their Siberian Husky Blitz with Hollywood star Tom Cruise Adam with partner Lucy Hinch and their Siberian Husky Blitz with Hollywood star Tom Cruise (Image: ADAM WHEELER)


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Adam, however, is no stranger to a challenge and has completed the Pennine Way, Coast to Coast, and the West Highland Way.

He even bumped in to Top Gun megastar Tom Cruise atop a Lake District Fell in 2022.

To donate to Adam's fundraiser, click here.