James Hirst, from Fordingbridge, completed the route along the South West Coast Path in just 39 days, raising nearly £9,000 for Salisbury Hospice in memory of his mother, Nikee, who died of breast cancer in June 2020 at the age of 50.

James said: “It’s been tough at times, but also an incredible experience.

“The support from people along the way has meant everything – complete strangers offering help, food, a place to stay. I didn’t expect that.”

James Hirst finishes 650-mile walk in 39 days, raising £9,000 for Salisbury Hospice. (Image: Salisbury Hospice)

He began the journey from his home, adding an extra 20 miles to the official route, which begins in Poole, and was dedicated to the hospice that cared for his mother in her final weeks.

Nikki Spicer, chair of Salisbury Hospice Charity, said James’s achievement was “truly inspiring”.

She said: “We are incredibly proud of what James has achieved.

“To take on a challenge of this scale in memory of his mum and raise such a significant amount is truly inspiring.

“The funds he has raised will make a real difference, helping us continue to provide vital care and support to patients and families when they need it most.”

James, who documented his journey online under the name Rambling Man, carried all his own equipment and camped most nights, though he was often supported by the generosity of strangers.

James Hirst finishes 650-mile walk in 39 days, raising £9,000 for Salisbury Hospice. (Image: Salisbury Hospice)

He previously said: “I’ve met so many kind people on my way.

“One couple let me stay in their spare room for the night and even took me out for dinner.

“And on one day when I got lost, a farmer – rather than shooting me for trespassing – actually invited me to cross his land to get me back on track.”

He said the walk was a personal pilgrimage and admitted he underestimated the scale of the challenge.

James said: “It’s certainly a challenge – I don’t think I realised just how hard it would be.

“If I had, I might not have been so bullish.

“My mum always wanted to walk the path, so I’m doing it for her.

Reflecting on the end of his journey, James kept his plans refreshingly simple.

He said: “Right now, I’m going to finish this pint, the get myself home, have a bath, a Chinese, and watch a movie.”