Walking 85 miles for those who go the extra mile: director’s charity challenge
Date: 30 April 2026Director of Digital Innovation, Sian Clark is taking on a challenge a little out of the ordinary for her day job: walking an epic 85 miles along a coast to coast route across England to raise vital funds for the East of England Ambulance Service Charity.
As part of National Walking Month, beginning on 25 May 2026, Sian and her son Bryn will walk 85 miles starting from Bowness-on-Solway to Wallsend. Not only will they be carrying their own kit including food, clothing, water and essentials for the week but they will also carry an ambulance response bag and a defibrillator. This adds approximately 18kg of additional weight, a deliberate tribute to the emotional, mental, and physical load carried each day by ambulance staff and volunteers.
Sian’s motivation for undertaking the challenge is rooted in her admiration for the dedication shown by EEAST colleagues who consistently go above and beyond for patients and communities.
The funds raised will directly support the East of England Ambulance Service Charity, helping to provide vital wellbeing support for staff and volunteers, deliver impactful community projects and enhanced patient services across the region. Crucially, charitable funding allows investment in specialist equipment, additional training and innovative initiatives that sit beyond what standard NHS provision can offer – ensuring staff are supported and contributing to stronger care outcomes for patients and families when they need help most.
Sian Clark, Director of Digital Innovation at EEAST said: “I’m constantly inspired by the commitment and resilience shown by the staff and volunteers at EEAST. This challenge is my way of honouring their hard work and help raise funds that go directly back into supporting them and the communities we serve.”
Kate Lott, Head of Charity commented: “Sian’s challenge is a powerful and symbolic reminder of the pressures the EEAST staff and volunteers face each day. Her determination and commitment to supporting EEAST colleagues, patients, and the communities is outstanding. We hope many will get behind her to support this important fundraising effort.”
The challenge will take place over six days and will test both physical and mental endurance.
You can support Sian’s challenge by donating to her JustGiving page, helping the East of England Ambulance Service Charity to continue providing vital support across the region.
