Regular readers of this column will know by now that I like to shine a light on some of the ordinary people who make Clacton and the surrounding areas so extraordinary.

At a time when so much of the news is gloomy, it is worth remembering that there are still countless decent and determined people doing remarkable things in their own communities.

One of them is John Parry, a 78-year-old grandfather from Tendring Village. John – who is known by his online followers as Welsh Grandad – has been battling cancer since 2024. Yet he’s preparing to take on an astonishing challenge, planning to walk from coast to coast.

On 21st June, John will set off from Lowestoft in Suffolk and walk more than 450 miles to St Davids in West Wales. His aim is to raise a total of £20,000 for four excellent causes: Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, Farleigh Hospice in Essex and St David’s Hospice in Newport. So far, he’s raised £14,500.

This would be an impressive feat for anyone, let alone a man who is currently receiving treatment for cancer. I certainly wouldn’t fancy walking that far! But in John’s own words, he wants to approach this walk as he does all things, “one step at a time, one day at a time.”

Stories like John’s remind us that this country is still full of plenty of grit and quiet courage and I would like to think this is a cause that everyone can get behind.

Times are tough for a lot of people, but anything you can spare will be much appreciated. You can donate to John here – https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/grandadsgreatwalk

I’m sure all readers will join me in wishing John the very best of luck. He is doing Tendring and Clacton proud.