HE is well-versed in entertainment around the country.
But now wacky Huddersfield performance poet Craig Bradley is to take on a rather different challenge.
The Dalton-based poet is getting set to undertake the ultimate walking challenge this summer as he prepares to walk the length of the country to raise money for the NSPCC .
Craig, 49, who goes by the name of That Poetry Bloke will be setting off on a 900-mile adventure from Land’s End to John o’Groats on Sunday.
Craig is a professional poet, writer and performer who tours the country sharing his passion and infectious enthusiasm for words.
He performs in schools, libraries, museums, art galleries, hospitals and literary festivals.
In his past he has been a stand-up comedian, roadie, heavy metal drummer, window cleaner, humbug boiler, nightclub bouncer, Butlins breakfast cook and gravedigger.
Now he is taking on the Land’s End-John o’Groats challenge with his friend, Andrew Amos, and supported by a back-up team in a camper van, (his partner Jackie, and sons Ben and Jack, along with Maisie the dog).
The dynamic duo will be walking an average of 20 miles a day and have set themselves the target of reaching the final destination of John o’Groats in just seven weeks.
Although he is a keen walker in his spare time, Craig has been practising walking many more miles than normal over the last few months to make sure he is in shape for the challenge ahead.
“I’m really looking forward to the walk, but I’m also a little bit nervous. It’s a long way!
“We’re committed to raising as much money as possible for the NSPCC, so if you see us along the way, give us a wave and say hello or please donate to our page”.
Asked what he’s looking forward to the most about the walk, Craig said: “I’m looking forward to the every day challenges, the different landscapes, meeting people and getting away from it all for a bit.
“I’ve been thinking about this walk for years, planning it for months and I’m really looking forward to just getting on with it now.
Helen Verity, NSPCC community fundraising manager, said: “All the money raised from Craig’s challenge will help the NSPCC to run its vital services and helplines that are so often a lifeline for vulnerable children and young people.
“None of the services and projects would be possible without people’s huge fund-raising efforts like Craig and Andrew. I wish them the best of luck for their challenge”.
To support Craig and the team in their walking challenge, please visit the Just Giving page at: www.justgiving.com/ThatPoetryBloke . You can also donate via text by texting POET64 £5 to 70070.
Craig will also be blogging on his website www.thatpoetrybloke.com or you can also follow Craig on Twitter @thatpoetrybloke.
