Inspired by the charity’s CEO Matt Walpole, who undertook his own 300-mile walk around Cornwall’s coast path in 2025, Paul Foord from St Austell will begin his adventure on Friday 15 May. Accompanying Paul, a regular volunteer for Cornwall Wildlife Trust, will be his mascot ‘Justin Beaver’.  

The pair will set off from the start of the South West Coast Path in Minehead, Somerset, travelling through Cornwall and onwards to the trail’s end in Poole, Dorset. 

Paul says:  

“When I’m not helping to heal people at Treliske, I’m passionate about helping nature recovery in Cornwall. 

“As a volunteer for Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Beaver Project and Speaker Network, where I give talks about the charity’s work, I love doing what I can to support a Cornwall where wildlife and wild places thrive. 

“After seeing the amazing results from Matt’s walk, where he raised almost £4,000 to help sustain Cornwall’s wildlife, I felt inspired to take on my own challenge, with my mascot, Justin, by my side. 

“We’ll be fitting the walk around work commitments, but we hope to complete it by the end of the summer and to raise lots of funds for nature across Cornwall.” 

Paul will carry everything needed to remain self-sufficient during the journey, including a tent, food, and camping equipment. He is also encouraging people to say hello or join him for sections of the route along the way.

Josie Purcell, Community Fundraising and Events Lead at Cornwall Wildlife Trust said:  

“Paul’s incredible endeavour to walk the South West Coast Path is testament to the passion people have for protecting wildlife and wild places, both in Cornwall and beyond. 

“We are always hugely grateful for the amazing things our supporters do to raise funds for nature. Thank you, Paul, we can’t wait to follow your journey and Justin’s escapades along the way!” 

The pair have created a JustGiving fundraising page and Instagram account where people can follow their adventures and support the challenge. Visit justgiving.com/page/paul-foord-5 to donate or follow @paul132282 on Instagram to see the walk unfold.