A COUPLE from Wrexham have walked almost 200 miles in a fundraiser for a Parkinson's charity.

Pete Cook, 35, and Holly Watson, 28, stepped out for more than 192 miles from Saint Bees, in Cumbria, to Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire, raising over £1,000 for Parkinson's UK Cymru.

The pair completed the challenge in 14 days and were inspired to fundraise for Parkinson's UK Cymru because Pete's father, Michael Cook, was diagnosed with the condition in 2020.

Pete said: "Dad has been battling Parkinson's for years and it's hard for us to witness his daily struggles. The condition has really affected his quality of life, and he has inspired us to take action and contribute to the ongoing research, support services, and advocacy provided by Parkinson's UK Cymru."

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The couple set off on their challenge on Friday, September 29 and said fundraising for Parkinson's UK Cymru kept them motivated. They described it as the toughest mental challenge they have ever done.

Pete added: "The atmosphere and the views of the trek were absolutely incredible and it's a challenge we will never forget. I even managed to hide a ring at the bottom of my rucksack throughout the challenge, and proposed to Holly at the finish line. She said yes!"

Pete Cook and Holly Watson, who took on a walking trek for charity.

Pete Cook and Holly Watson, who took on a walking trek for charity.

Parkinson's is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, and currently there is no cure. It affects about 153,000 people in the UK and every hour two more people are diagnosed.

Parkinson's UK is here for everyone affected by the condition. It funds research into the most promising treatments, and fights for fair treatment and better services.

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Pete said: "My family has received great support from Parkinson's UK Cymru, especially the helpline, so please donate if you can. We're really proud to have met our fundraising target, but would love to raise more!"

Kirsty Berrigan and Rebecca Landolt, heads of regional fundraising at Parkinson's UK, said: "We are so grateful to Pete and Holly for taking on this incredible challenge for Parkinson's UK.

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"With more than 40 potential symptoms, Parkinson's can devastate lives. We've made huge breakthroughs in the last 50 years, but there is still no cure and current treatments are not good enough.

"We hope this fundraising challenge inspires you to get involved with Parkinson's UK. There are lots of ways for you to get involved and support us - from volunteering at an event, to campaigning for better services. Without the generosity of people like you, our work would not be possible."

To sponsor Pete and Holly visit www.justgiving.com/peter-cook-1689151657976

To find out how to fundraise for Parkinson's UK visit parkinsons.org.uk/fundraising