Sunderland man's incredible walking challenge for the Bradley Lowery Foundation - 20 miles a day for a year!

‘This time, I want to go even further’

A Sunderland man is planning an incredible challenge which will see him walk 20 miles a day for a year.

Squadron Sergeant Major David Ansell at the end of his previous phenomenal challenge.placeholder image
Squadron Sergeant Major David Ansell at the end of his previous phenomenal challenge.

David Ansell is preparing the extraordinary endurance challenge to raise money for the Bradley Lowery Foundation and said: “The Bradley Lowery Foundation does incredible work supporting families facing the toughest of times, and I’m proud to do my part in raising both funds and awareness.”

But this is not the first time he has taken on amazing feats.

He previously walked 10 miles a day for 1,000 consecutive days, in a journey that spanned two years, eight months and three weeks. He completed this monumental challenge in September 2025.

Now, David is setting his sights even higher and will be starting on his 52nd birthday, on July 12.

He won’t finish until July 11 2027,. The distance will be split into 10 miles in the morning and 10 miles in the evening, doubling the daily mileage of his previous challenge.

Speaking about his motivation, David Ansell said: “Completing the 1,000-day challenge showed me just how much can be achieved with determination and purpose. This time, I want to go even further.”

David Ansell pictured when he was walking 10 miles a day for a 100 days, with Annual Cancer Research UK Relay for Life organiser Ann Walsh. Now he is doing a new challenge for the Bradley Lowery Foundation.placeholder image
David Ansell pictured when he was walking 10 miles a day for a 100 days, with Annual Cancer Research UK Relay for Life organiser Ann Walsh. Now he is doing a new challenge for the Bradley Lowery Foundation. | Stu Norton

The challenge will test David’s physical and mental endurance across all seasons, as he balances the demands of daily life alongside his commitment as a British Army reservist.

Supporters can follow David’s journey and contribute to his fundraising efforts via his JustGiving page at https://www.justgiving.com/page/davids365challenge

Brooke Mitchell, the BLF’s Fundraising and Family Support Worker said: “David’s commitment is truly inspiring. His efforts will make a meaningful difference to families supported by The Bradley Lowery Foundation, and we hope the community will rally behind him once again.”

Bradley Lowery who inspired the Foundation which is doing great work in his memory.placeholder image
Bradley Lowery who inspired the Foundation which is doing great work in his memory. | Sunderland Echo

The Bradley Lowery Foundation was established in memory of Bradley Lowery who captured hearts across the UK during his battle with neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer.

The Foundation supports children and families affected by cancer by providing practical and financial assistance, funding treatment and equipment, and helping to create memorable experiences.

It also works to raise awareness of childhood cancers and improve support networks for affected families across the UK.

More information can be found at: https://bradleyloweryfoundation.com

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