From Walking the London Underground to Supporting Baby Charities: A Remarkable 61-Mile Journey Along the Elizabeth Line
This weekend, two dedicated enthusiasts are undertaking an extraordinary challenge — walking a combined distance of approximately 61 miles (around 135,000 steps) along the newly inaugurated Elizabeth Line in London. Their goal? To raise vital funds for Tommy’s, a leading charity committed to groundbreaking research into pregnancy, miscarriage, and premature birth.
A Tradition of Endurance and Philanthropy
You might think that after completing a marathon-like trek across the entire London Underground network — involving eleven lines, countless blisters, and surviving a global pandemic — my friends, Dave and Dave Mac, would be ready to hang up their walking shoes. Perhaps a quiet evening with a pint and a well-earned rest would be their reward.
However, the arrival of the Elizabeth Line—a state-of-the-art 73-mile rail corridor—has provided a new adventure that simply cannot be missed. True to their adventurous spirit, the pair is once again lacing up their boots, ready to traverse the streets of London, from Reading all the way to Abbey Wood, with a cause close to their hearts.
The Weekend’s Walks: From Reading to Abbey Wood
Friday: The journey begins with Dave Mac embarking on a solo walk from Reading to Hayes, covering approximately 27 miles and amassing around 60,000 steps. This serves as a warm-up to the weekend’s main event—a full marathon solo warm-up.
Saturday: The following day, both Daves will unite for the more ambitious leg—from Heathrow to Abbey Wood. This stretch involves navigating through 19 inner stations, covering roughly 34 miles and approximately 75,000 steps. It’s a demanding feat, marked by the usual challenges of blisters, chafing, and perhaps—the occasional craving for traditional mid-walk samosas.
Supporting a Vital Cause
All proceeds from their efforts will go directly to Tommy’s, the baby charity dedicated to improving outcomes for mothers and infants. Their research has contributed to life-saving advancements and has helped save the lives of numerous babies. Notably, the Daves know of at least three children who have benefited personally from the charity’s work.
Over the years, they have raised roughly £20,000 through similar challenges involving the London Tube, and this year, they hope to add at least another £1,000 for Tommy’s. Your support can make a real