Charity | Posted on May 20th, 2026 | return to news

Fordingbridge man walks 650 miles for Salisbury Hospice

James Hirst, 26, has walked the 650-mile South West Coast Path to raise money for Salisbury Hospice.

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A Fordingbridge man has raised nearly £9,000 for charity by walking the 650-mile South West Coast Path.

James Hirst, 26, took on the challenge to raise funds for Salisbury Hospice, which cared for his mother in her final days.

Hirst reached the finish line on Monday 18 May, taking just 39 days to walk the route.

Starting from Poole Harbour, Hirst walked along the coastline to Minehead in Somerset via the coastline, going through Dorset, Devon and Cornwall.

Hirst documented his journey on social media, sharing an image each day and meeting people along the way. Reflecting on the walk, he said: “It’s been tough at times, but also an incredible experience. The support from people along the way has meant everything — complete strangers offering help, food, a place to stay. I didn’t expect that.”

What did he plan to do next after finishing the epic hike?

“Right now, I’m going to finish this pint, the get myself home, have a bath, a Chinese, and watch a movie.”

Responding to Hirst’s achievement, Nikki Spicer, chair of Salisbury Hospice Charity said: “We are incredibly proud of what James has achieved. To take on a challenge of this scale in memory of his mum and raise such a significant amount is truly inspiring. The funds he has raised will make a real difference, helping us continue to provide vital care and support to patients and families when they need it most.”