Chamber member begins 160-mile walk to fundraise in memory of wife

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce member Simon Greenfield has set out on a 160 mile walk to honour the memory of his wife Alaine while raising vital funds for Birmingham Hospice.

Simon started his walk last Saturday from the Bournville Social Club in Birmingham and aims to reach The East India Club in London within two weeks.

Alaine, who died from cancer last year had been one of the first women members of Bournville Social Club while the couple has had fond memories staying in The East India Club in London.

Simon said: “Alaine loved the countryside, and particularly adored animals, plants and water. So this gave me the idea that perhaps I could do the whole walk through countryside as this would be very appropriate to her memory.

“After researching a possible route along the canal and then next to the Thames, it became apparent that there were enough pubs and hotels along the way to make this possible.

“I will be documenting the nature she so loved and places of interest and people that I encounter on my journey. Alaine also loved a country pub lunch so this blog will include reviews of all 14 pub lunches along the way, and of course the local ales.

“Following the loss of Alaine, I was unfortunate to also lose my Dad, Ron Greenfield, and then my cat, Mrs Puddykins. It was a very painful time for me.

“However, the Birmingham Hospice Wellbeing Team supported me through this difficult period with bereavement counselling for which I am very grateful for.

“In order to give something back for the help I received, I will be using this walk to raise money for Birmingham Hospice. Your donations can make a huge difference to the work of Birmingham Hospice. As an example, a donation of £59 pays for a bereavement support session that helped me through my journey of grief.”

Birmingham Hospice is the main provider of adult hospice care for Birmingham, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield and Sandwell, and provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care for around 670 people each day at hospice sites, in the community or in patients’ own homes. 

Donations can be made via the JustGiving page.

Pictured from left to right: Alaine Greenfield and Simon Greenfield