Aged just 17, on 5th August Joel will begin walking from Talacre beach in North Wales, heading South towards Cardiff.
A young man with a passion for military history, Joel has spent time in the cadets, being involved in Remembrance Day parades and poppy appeals. In 2019 alone there were 18 suicides among members of the Armed Forces, and 10% of serving personnel were suffering PTSD. Joel is looking to do what he can to help fundraise for those who have served and suffered.
In addition to the Royal British Legion Joel will be raising funds for the charity Young Minds. The pandemic has exacerbated mental health issues among young people in this country. 80,000 young people are estimated to suffer with severe depression, something Joel has experienced personally. Through this challenge he is hoping to support others who are struggling.
This is a great challenge for 2 very worthy causes. Joel is hoping to raise £1,000.
You can follow Joel’s journey on Instagram @ wales_north2south and see details of how to donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/team/joelwestleywales
Photo: Joel Westley
Report compiled by Matt Wooden