Graeme Wharfe

Marching for Veterans: 11.5 Miles, One Mission

Some challenges are personal. Others are about something far greater than yourself.

This was one of those.

Graeme Wharfe, Terry Fountain, Gabriel Wharfe (aged 11), Aaron Umney and Darren Baxter set out to complete an 11.5-mile hike in support of veterans’ mental health — to raise awareness, to raise funds, and to stand in solidarity with those still fighting battles long after their service ends.

We began at Ivinghoe Beacon, high on the edge of the Dunstable Downs — a place known for its wide skies, open chalk grassland, and relentless wind. From the first step, it was clear this wasn’t just a walk. It was a shared commitment.

Walking an Ancient Route

Our route followed part of the Icknield Way, one of the oldest known trackways in Britain. For thousands of years, people have used this route to move across the landscape — long before modern roads existed.

As we crossed the open chalk hills and farmland, down toward Whipsnade and back toward Dunstable, there was a quiet awareness that this ground has always been about endurance and movement. Generations have walked these paths before us, each with their own reasons.

Nature Along the Way

One of the most powerful parts of the journey was what we saw around us.

We passed through stretches of bluebell woods, the ground covered in colour, a real contrast to the exposed chalk hills above. Along the way we spotted deer moving quietly across the landscape and watched red kites circling overhead, riding the wind with ease.

We even did a small amount of wild foraging, finding wild garlic growing naturally along the route — a simple but memorable moment that connected us even more to the land we were walking through.

It was a reminder that while we were walking for a serious cause, we were also surrounded by something calm, natural, and enduring.

Bluebell Camp

Around halfway, we stopped and set up what we called “Bluebell Camp.”

It was a simple but meaningful pause. We brewed coffee, opened ration packs, and made hot chocolate for Gabriel. Out there in the open, with the wind moving across the hills, it brought everything back to basics.

For Gabriel, it was more than just a rest — it was an experience. For all of us, it was a reminder of why we were there.

The Final Stretch

The conditions were beautiful but tough — clear views across the countryside, paired with a cold, steady wind that never really let up.

Still, the mood never dropped.

There was humour, conversation, and a shared sense of purpose carrying us forward. Step by step, we made our way back toward Dunstable, finishing along Great Northern Road — tired, windswept, but proud to complete the 11.5 miles together.

Why We Did It

Across the UK, many veterans live with the psychological impact of their service. PTSD and other mental health challenges can affect every part of life — relationships, work, and overall wellbeing.

Too often, these struggles go unseen.

By taking part, we’re helping to support:

• 24-hour helpline access for veterans in need
• Specialist treatment from trained clinicians
• Peer support networks to reduce isolation
• Ongoing research into PTSD and related conditions

Every mile walked and every pound raised helps provide real, practical support to those who need it most.

More Than Just Miles

This was more than an 11.5-mile hike.

It was about showing up — for each other, for our families, and for those who have served.

It was about taking on something challenging, together, with purpose behind every step.

And it was about doing it as a group — friends and family, across generations.

They carried the weight of service.

We carried it, for a while, across the hills.

Support my March in March

This year I will be taking on March in March to raise vital funds for life-changing mental health treatment for veterans.

Combat Stress is the UK's leading charity for veterans' mental health. For over a century, they've helped former servicemen and women deal with issues like trauma, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Today, they provide support to veterans from every service and every conflict.

I’m taking on March in March to help take vital steps towards ensuring veterans can get the support they need.

Thank you so much for your support and together we march!