Rambling rover reaches the ‘diamonds’ of Dundee

Published On Tue 18 Apr 2017 by Dominic Younger

Steve Hallett (25) reached what he described as the ‘sparkling diamonds’ of Dundee when he crossed the River Tay at midnight on Easter Sunday, during a 700+ mile walk from Newquay to John O’Groats in memory of his late mother.

The former University of Dundee applicant who chose Winchester for personal reasons, finally reached the city five years after his initial interest and was given shelter by Lynn Boyle, Lecturer in the School of Education and Social Work at the University.

Steve spent his first night in Dudhope Park, the furthest north he has ever been, before being given a roof over his head by Lynn.

Steve’s rules of the road during his walk include no paying for transport or accommodation but he will accept help when offered.

In the 120 days travelling up the country, he has received 20 lifts, reducing the 700+ miles travelled to 500 miles on foot. He said, “All the help I’ve had so far has always been out of the blue, and I’ve been amazed at the warmth and generosity of people across the country.

“I was nearly made homeless at the age of 19 when my mother died, fortunately I wasn’t but I have seen how close we all are to it. By walking from Newquay to John O’Groats I want to not only raise money for Shelter and the Drop In & Share Centre back home but also raise awareness that being homeless is a state anyone can fall into.”

Lynn said, “We are very happy to help Steve and welcome him into our home. At first we were uncertain as I got a call from a friend of a friend asking to help out but after we thought about it a bit more, we thought why not. Meeting him was like meeting any of my students, we all need to realise that homeless people are often just unlucky.

“We felt terrible that he even had to stay one night in Dudhope Park, we hope that anyone else further north will help Steve by donating and going out of their way to provide him with some shelter as he continues up to John O’Groats.”

Those interested can follow Steve’s progress on his walk at www.facebook.com/TheWanderingGent and donate at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/steve-hallett. 

For media enquiries contact:
Dominic Glasgow
Media Relations Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
Tel: +44 (0)1382 385131
Email: d.w.glasgow@dundee.ac.uk