Shropshire father walks over 50 miles for charity in memory of 16-year-old son

A Shropshire father has completed a 60-mile charity walk in memory of his son to raise funds for a local children’s hospice charity.

Ian Moult, 66, finished the walk on Friday, October 16, supported by his partner Janet in their motorhome, Ruby.

He walked over 50 miles from Hope House in Oswestry to Tŷ Gobaith in Conwy in tribute to his son John, who died in 2011, aged 16.

John had bowel cancer and was cared for at Hope House in his final weeks.

Along the way, Ian took in breathtaking scenery, including the Berwyn Mountains and the Conwy Valley.

“We were really lucky with the weather,” said Ian.

“It only rained on Thursday, but it turned out very wet and windy. It was a good job I’d packed three sets of waterproofs, as I needed them all.”

Friends from Oswestry’s Cae Glas Cricket Club joined Ian and Janet for the final leg on Friday.

“There was a tremendous reception from the staff and children as we arrived at Tŷ Gobaith, followed by a welcome cup of tea and a slice of cake,” he added.

Vicky Bradbeer, area fundraiser for Hope House, said: “We are so grateful to Ian for taking on this challenge to raise money.

“It was lovely to set Ian off from Hope House at the start of his journey and for him to be welcomed to Tŷ Gobaith by some of the staff and children.

“We can only be here to provide the vital care and support that we do for local children with life-threatening conditions and their families because of valued supporters like Ian.”

Ian added: “Special thanks are due to Rheinallt and Liz at Berwyn Barns, Samantha Williams at Ifor Williams Trailers, Alec and Julia at Gaer Hyfryd Caravan Park and finally Beryl and John at Bron Derw Touring Caravan Park.”

Sponsorship of the walk has so far raised more than £1,450, with more than £1,500 raised through other fundraising events during 2026.

Donations can still be made through Ian’s JustGiving page.