Wrexham man to trek America in support of Hope House

Paul Edwards is a marathon and ultramarathon runner from Penycae who has raised thousands for Hope House over the years.

His latest challenge will begin on Friday, January 6 from the Pacific Coast in Ocean Beach, San Diego, California.

Then, in about five months time, Paul's journey will end at the Atlantic Coast in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Paul is aiming to raise a total of £15,000 for Hope House along the way.

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His mission will see him take in 11 states also including Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia.

Paul said: “I am taking on my biggest challenge ever when I walk completely solo and unsupported across the entire continent of America.

"I will be starting at the Pacific Coast from Ocean Beach, San Diego in California, and finishing approximately 3,000 miles and five months later at the Atlantic Coast in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

“I have seen the wonderful work done by the hospice staff both for the children and their families. The care given to the families is unconditional. I think all who work there are wonderful. It’s such a wonderful place and I want to raise as much as I can.”

This is not the first trek Paul has done for Hope House - many will remember him walking from John O’Groats to Land’s End.

For that one, he dressed head-to-toe as Marvel character Deadpool, following his beloved Wrexham AFC’s purchase by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

He raised more than £16,000 during that challenge.

Hope House fundraiser Cat Dowdeswell said: “Paul is an absolutely incredible supporter of Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith and has already raised over £28,000 through his amazing long-distance solo walks.

“This will be the challenge of a lifetime for Paul and we cannot wait to hear how the journey unfolds. Good luck Paul, we are all behind you, every step of the way.”