John's 70 for 70

John Farmer is walking an incredible 70 miles in celebration of his 70th birthday – to raise money for Age UK.

John is starting in the John Smith's Stadium in Huddersfield on 6 April, and will then walk for 7 days, through Yorkshire, the Peak District, and onto Derbyshire. He will end his journey at Derby's County's Pride Park Stadium on 13 April.

John says: "My 70-mile walking challenge is inspired by the late athlete Bruce Tulloh, who marked his 80th birthday by walking 80 miles. I'm no athlete, and I'm only 70, but I thought a 70-mile walking challenge would be a great way to celebrate my landmark birthday, as well as a fun way to raise some money for Age UK.

"I lost my mum in 2011 and my mum-in-law in 2018, and wanted to raise money for Age UK in their memory. I saw first-hand the struggles both of these wonderful people faced as they got older and it means so much to me to be able to raise money for a charity that really is there for the older generation and tackles these issues head on."

John's route

• Saturday 6 April - The John Smith's Stadium, Huddersfield to Thongsbridge
• Sunday 7 April - Thongsbridge to Langsett
• Monday 8 April - Langsett to Low Bradfield
• Tuesday 9 April - Low Bradfield to Hathersage
• Wednesday 10 April - Hathersage to Rowsley
• Thursday 11 April - Rowslet to Wirksworth
• Friday 12 April - Wirksworth to Duffield
• Saturday 13 April - Duffield to Pride Park Stadium, Derby

Staying active

Laurie Boult, Fundraising Director at Age UK, says: "John is an absolute star and we're so thankful that he's decided to mark this momentous occasion by fundraising for Age UK. John is a huge inspiration, his creative birthday celebration is a genius way to build up support and we hope John's story inspires others to join Age UK and do something amazing.

"Not only is it a great way to fundraise, it's also a brilliant message to spread – John is only turning 70 but it's worth remembering that keeping active in older age is so important and he is doing just that. Mammoth walking challenges might not be everybody's cup of tea but there are plenty of other things we can all do to keep moving whether it's everyday walking, dancing, gardening – the list is endless, as are the benefits."

The money raised by incredible people like John will help Age UK be there for vulnerable older people when there is no one else to turn to for help and support.

Follow John's journey on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #John70for70.