Adrian Crouch (Loveday, 2006) and Max Eton (Prep School, 2001) recently completed the challenging pilgrimage walk in Comino De Santiago: 800 kms in 33 days to raise over £1,000 for “Help for Heroes” – supporting our armed forces’ casualties returning from overseas conflicts.
Adrian writes: Part of the driving force for selecting this charity was our close ties with families who have sons in conflict operations in Afghanistan, some of whom are now in Headley Court, the rehabilitation centre in Leatherhead. After flying to Biarittz we crossed the Pyrenees, a 1,200m ascent, inspired by breath-taking views at the peak and thence to the endless vineyards of La Rioja. Inspiring too was the company of other walkers, of all ages and from all walks of life.
The broken languages of English, French, Spanish, German and many more merged into an international language of enthusiastic evening conversation. Each night at the stopping points our Pilgrim’s credential and Compostela Certificate were stamped and signed. Challenges included painful blisters and a rabid dog biting a newly-found friend.
We finally arrived at the Cathedral of Santiago – a tomb to Saint James which houses the largest incense burner in the world – and at midday the Cathedral held a mass for all walkers at the end of their personal journey. We both strongly recommend anyone, of any age, to embark on this fantastic challenge.