A charity worker from Portreath is tackling 296 miles of the Cornwall coastal path over 18 days next month to fund a holiday for the children he helps support.

Sam Gillham, a team leader with learning disability charity Brandon Trust’s Cornwall Children’s Services, will start his fundraising adventure in Bude on May 9 and finish, 18 stages and 16 miles-a-day later, at the Mayflower Steps in Plymouth on May 26. That’s roughly 12 marathons in 18 days.

"I'm not an athlete, just a regular 30-year-old wanting to do something great for a charity I’m passionate about," said Sam. "Seeing the entirety of the Cornish coastal path is something I've always wanted to do and this seemed like a great opportunity, whilst raising some money."

Sam has been busy arranging daily stops and free rooms each night along his route and plans to travel light. He's also hoping to see many of the youngsters Brandon Trust supports on his travels. With a target to raise £1,000, his training is going well.

"This run will of course be far more strenuous and challenging than anything I've ever tried before," said Sam. "The money raised will be put towards another trip, either Go Province or something similar for a number of the kids, some of whom will not have had the opportunity to go on holiday before.

"Working closely with the kids and everyone involved in children's services, I've been amazed at the passion, commitment, flexibility, and drive everyone shows in the support they give, and wanted to do something small to express my admiration for the team and raise money towards something the kids will benefit from."

Sam will update his blog each night and you can follow his journey at samgillhamruns.wordpress.com/, while donations can be made via his fundraising page at justgiving.com/Sam-Gillham2/.