Octogenarian tames wilds of Scotland

A LONG-standing member of Wooden Spoon Chilterns has walked his way into the history books at the age of 80 by becoming the oldest debutant to tackle The Great Outdoors Challenge.

Despite having no previous rambling experience, Alec Mudge raised more than £1,600 for the children’s charity of rugby by successfully completing the annual backpacking event, which involves participants walking from Scotland’s west to east coast.

The energetic octogenarian took just over a week to cover the trek – which ranges in distance from 180 to 210 miles depending on the precise route taken.

Alec prepared for his challenge in a fairly unconventional manner, covering many training miles close to home while carrying a rucksack filled with golf balls.

His training regime paid dividends and, although he suffered late on with painful blisters on both feet, the Wooden Spoon supporter stuck to his task long after many younger entrants had dropped out.

Fancy tackling a challenge of your own? Click here to explore the different ways you can raise funds for Wooden Spoon.