Across the Dunes for a Worthy Cause

Craig Smith is ready to push his physical limits, all in the name of giving back

Craig Smith, 53, from Warmsley, Bury, will be trekking through the vast sun-baked plains of the Sahara Desert, in November.

Last September, Craig completed the Bury Six Trek, which visited six local landmarks, covering 21 miles of scenic views within the Bury borough boundary.

He walked in memory of his mother-in-law, Susan Hardman, who was a patient at the hospice.

Craig, said: “Bury Hospice provided Susan with exceptional personalised care and support during the final stages of her life, whilst she was suffering with Motor Neurone Disease.”

“The care and support also extended to our family, for which we will always be thankful.”

Knowing that Bury Hospice is primarily reliant on funding via generous donations, Craig has decided to undertake a fundraising event in support of the hospice every year, from here on.

Craig completes the Bury Six Trek

This year, Craig is upping the ante, as he prepares to spend two full days and two half days trekking 50km across sand dunes and dried up river beds, in support of the hospice.

In preparation for the forthcoming Sahara trek, Craig sets out with his border collies, Conker and Bramble, for a daily 10-mile uphill walk, often passing through Burrs Country Park towards Greenmount on a nice, picturesque trail.

He said: “My training is going fine because I do a lot of walking generally, but I think trekking in the Sahara will be a lot harder, and certainly a lot hotter, especially in the sandy terrain, which is going to be quite difficult.”

“I’d imagine that for every step forward, we’d probably take a half a step backward as the result of sinking – that’s the sort of thing I’m expecting.”

Conker and Bramble, the best walking companions

Craig is currently seeking support from the community to help him achieve his £800 target, ahead of the once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Morocco.

He said: “I have personally funded the cost of the trip; please be asssured that every penny of sponsorship money raised will go directly to Bury Hospice.”

“This is the toughest challenge I’ve ever set myself.”

“When I come out the other side, I’m probably going to be quite pleased and proud of myself because I’ve managed to do it.”

“It will be a character building event.”

Please support Craig on the epic Sahara Trek for Bury Hospice, by pledging a kind donation.

Craig's fundraiser