World-famous hiking trail the South West Coast Path has launched the Every Mile Matters campaign and Coast Path Challenge 2024.

Spearheaded by the South West Coast Path Association, businesses across the South West are showing their support.

The campaign's objective is to secure the path's future by encouraging all who treasure it to participate and raise funds.

This is vital in light of the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather conditions, climate change, and coastal erosion.

The Coast Path Challenge will comprise seven fundraising walks - The Magnificent 7 - conveniently accessible via train or bus, across the path's seven sections, from May.

The event provides an opportunity for individuals and businesses to demonstrate their support alongside those championing different local stretches across the trail's 630 miles through four counties.

Annually, over nine million individuals derive joy and wellness from using the South West Coast Path.

The association seeks to enhance accessibility and underscore the benefits of the path on health and well-being, through the Coast Path Connectors project.

Reliant on volunteer reports and trail partners, the charity - which maintains, improves, and promotes England’s longest national trail - has recorded over 230 severe coastal erosion incidents since 2013.

A significant number occurred in winter 2023/24 due to record rainfall, along with five wildfires within the last two years that led to temporary path closures and damage to delicate coastal habitats.

Firmly advocating for Every Mile Matters and the charity's fundraising pursuit is lead supporter St Austell Brewery.

Julian Gray, director, South West Coast Path Association, said: "We are delighted that St Austell Brewery is helping to protect the South West Coast Path by championing our Every Mile Matters campaign.

Laura McKay, marketing and communications director, St Austell Brewery, said: "As one of the region’s most important natural assets, the National Trail helps generate £520 million for the visitor economy each year..

"We’re thrilled to renew this important partnership with a charity that has the South West at its heart."

The firm joins other notable supporters, from Great Western Railway and Seasalt Clothing to Warrens Bakery, Luxury Coastal, and John Fowler Holidays.

Ms McKay added: "Our spaces serve as a welcome break for those walking the coast path to enjoy.

"Our places are not only somewhere for people to refuel and refresh but also for the charity to utilise as community hubs for events, such as their important mental health walk and talk groups".

Join in the effort by embarking on a Coast Path Challenge or the Magnificent 7 fundraising walks in May and June.

Participate in Every Mile Matters and ensure future generations enjoy this remarkable natural asset.

To book your place, visit the South West Coast Path website.