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Father and Son Take On 185‑Mile Thames Trek to Raise £50,000 for Cancer Research UK

A remarkable father‑and‑son fundraising challenge will unfold along the River Thames this August, as 10‑year‑old Ellis and his dad set out to walk the river’s entire 185‑mile length — from its source near Kemble in the Cotswolds to the Thames Barrier in London.

The pair begin their journey on 19 August, aiming to finish on 4 September. If successful, Ellis will become the youngest person ever to complete the full Thames route in one continuous trek.

Their goal is to raise £50,000 for Cancer Research UK, walking in memory of Ellis’s granny, Barbara Sutherland, who died from pancreatic cancer three years ago. The challenge blends fundraising with adventure: the duo will camp beside the river, carry their own gear, and use the journey to teach Ellis navigation, map reading, camping and fishing skills — with a few surprises planned to keep a 10‑year‑old motivated through nearly 200 miles.

The route will take them through Cricklade, Lechlade, Oxford, Benson, Pangbourne, Sonning, Maidenhead, Staines, Teddington and into central London before reaching the Thames Barrier.

Supporters can follow their progress and donate via:

• Website: www.sourcetoseachallenge.co.uk

• Instagram: @source__to__sea

• Personal Instagram: @family.adventures.uk

• JustGiving: www.justgiving.com/page/sourcetoseachallenge

Every mile brings them closer to their fundraising target — and to honouring Barbara’s memory with a challenge worthy of her legacy.