A Malvern man and his dog are embarking on a 250-mile towpath walk to raise money for charity.
Mark Willis, non-executive chairman of Surplex UK Limited, and his dog, Nina, will embark on the 23-day walk along England’s canal networks on July 1.
The fundraiser, named “The Kindness Amble,” has received a letter of support from the King and Queen and aims to raise money for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and the Canal & River Trust.
Mark has already raised nearly £1,500 two months before the walk begins.
To follow Mark and Nina’s journey, or to donate, visit https://surplex.co.uk/donate/.
Starting at Diglis Basin, Worcester, Mark and Nina will trek to Market Harborough and return to Diglis 23 days later.
Mark will push all supplies and Nina in a customised pushchair equipped with a solar panel to power essential gear and multiple fans to keep Nina cool.
The causes are important to Mark and his team, with funds raised for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home being in memory of Jasper, the office cat who recently passed away.
Mark said: “When Surplex UK Limited adopted Jasper through Battersea, the process was entirely seamless.
“What truly stood out was their dedication; they travelled all the way to our premises to deliver him personally, ensuring he was comfortable, settled, and secure throughout the transition.
“I am walking to ensure other animals get that same chance at a purposeful, happy life.”
Mark’s walk also aims to support the Canal & River Trust, especially after the Whitchurch Breach, to keep the national “blue spaces” alive for everyone.
He said: “At Surplex UK Limited, our commitment to sustainability goes beyond IT recycling and data destruction.
“We believe in preserving the systems that sustain us, whether that’s the circular economy of technology, the beauty of the British waterways, or the endurance of the animals that walk beside us in search of a second chance.”
The journey is self-funded, with Mark planning to camp at canal-side pubs.
He is hoping for support from the towpath community, hoping local pubs, landowners, and campsites will provide a safe place for him and Nina to camp for the night.
