Torrington woman takes on South West Coast Path for Samaritans

A Torrington resident has embarked on a journey to walk the South West Coast Path, in honour of her late sister, Becky. 

To date, May Oakes has raised more than £1000 for Samaritans, a cause that deeply resonates with her personal experiences.

In September 2015, May’s sister Becky was found at the base of a cliff near Salcombe. 

At the time, she was working at a hotel just off the South West Coast Path. 

Her untimely passing had a profound impact on everyone who knew her, and this tragic event is a significant reason why May chose this path for her fundraiser.

May said: “I have chosen Samaritans to fundraise for because I myself have faced periods of overwhelming depression and anxiety. There were times when I didn’t know who to call or felt like I had no one to reach out to. Becky too faced her own battles, and I hope the money raised can help others in similar situations, so no one has to feel alone without support.”

The South West Coast Path stretches 1,014 kilometres (630 miles) from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset, offering a challenging yet breathtaking adventure. 

May’s journey began with her partner, Pete, accompanying her for the first week. 

Together, they aim to reach Westward Ho before he returns home. 

From that point, May plans to continue the trek solo, with hopes of camping along the route.

“This walk has been incredibly challenging but equally rewarding,” May shared.

“I’ve met so many wonderful people along the path and had time for much-needed reflection.”

As of July 23, May had made it all the way to Portreath. 

Having recently left her job as a glass finisher at Dartington Crystal to undertake this challenge, May acknowledges that she has never done anything quite like this before. Despite her inexperience with long-distance hiking and camping alone, she has prepared by undertaking shorter walks with a weighted backpack as part of her training. 

May said: “I hope the money raised helps someone, who needs it. Because no one should feel alone without anyone to ask for help.”

You can support May here: https://shorturl.at/HblkL