Retired priest, battling arthritis, sets out on 200km Easter walk for charity
A 75-year-old priest has started his mission of trekking more than 200 kilometres by Easter, despite grappling with arthritis and persistent knee and hip discomfort.
Monsignor Canon Vincent Harvey, from Fareham, is taking on the big feat as part of CAFOD’s Big Lent Walk, dedicated to combating global poverty.
Having served as parish priest in Southampton for several years, Msgr Harvey retired recently.
He has already surpassed his initial fundraising target of £750, and raised £787 within the first 20 days of his 40-day campaign.
The journey so far has taken him across more than 60 kilometres around Itchen Valley, Fareham, and Portchester.
Acknowledging his physical struggles, Msgr Harvey told The Daily Echo: "I am low in kilometres but high in donations!
"I am walking, honest, just the knees and hip have been causing me gyp!! So, each step is an effort, and the rain doesn't help, but I keep on going!! Keep up the giving, please!"
CAFOD’s Big Lent Walk has supporters across over 40 countries, aiding those affected by displacement, loss, and chronic food shortages exacerbated by climate crises and global conflicts.
Neil Roper, fundraising events manager at CAFOD, expressed gratitude towards Msgr Harvey and other participants, emphasising the substantial impact of their contributions.
He told the news outlet: “We are so grateful to Monsignor Harvey and so many others who are taking part in our Big Lent Walk.
“Every pound raised makes a huge difference.
“Last year thousands of walkers got involved and this year we’re rallying even more participants, so we can reach more communities overseas.
“Embarking on a 200km journey might seem daunting, but if you break it up it’s manageable, and even fun! It’s not too late to get involved please sign up and challenge poverty to take a hike.”
He encouraged more individuals to join the initiative, highlighting the collective effort's potential to reach and support more communities worldwide.