Local Publican, Jake Wells, of The Cornerstone pub in Shefford, has completed a 90-mile walk to keep his town sparkling this Christmas.
On Friday, 12th December, Jake took on the incredible challenge of walking from Punch Pubs & Co headquarters in Burton on Trent, all the way back to his pub in Bedford, in just three days.
With rising costs, damaged lights, and Christmas spirit dimmed, Jake joined forces with the local committee and a group of volunteers with one mission – to save Shefford’s Christmas.
With family, friends and guests from his pub joining him along the way, Jake completed the festive feat and incredibly raised over £600 along the way.
Triumphant, he told us: “The sense of achievement I got from the challenge was indescribable. Don’t get me wrong, I ached so much throughout it, but I’m so proud of myself for carrying on, and incredibly grateful for all of the donations.
“The challenge itself was tough, I faced torrential rain, wind, and at some points, I didn’t think I’d make it to the markers. On the final stretch, my phone died, there were no paths, and my torch was running out of battery, but I did it, and seeing locals and friends cheering me on along the way made it all worthwhile.”
A whole town affair, while Jake led the 90-mile walking challenge, many locals also generously donated gifts, prizes and vouchers, as well as dug deep, all to stop Shefford from going dark.
Sending him off on his journey was Punch Pubs & Co Operations Manager Sam Grant, who also surprised Jake with a generous £245 donation raised by Punch employees, too.
He said: “I’m incredibly proud of Jake. I don’t think he realised at first what he’d signed up for, but we all knew he could do it. It’s amazing to see what he’s achieved for his town, and it really highlights the vital role pubs play in our communities. Well done, Jake!”
Thanks to Jake, the generosity of his guests, and everyone who has supported and donated to the cause, Shefford’s Christmas lights will be shining brighter than ever this festive season.