Cheshire Ring Walk Fundraiser Honors Middlewich Dad, Supports Mental Health

Martin Edwards died suddenly last June. His stepbrother, Kyle Bennett, shared this news. Martin lived alone after separating from his partner. He was 38 years old and left behind a two-year-old son.

Kyle said they thought Martin was having a tough time, but didn’t know how much he struggled. They wish he had shared his struggles. Kyle and Martin’s friends are planning a walk.

These friends include Mark Spanton and Chris Dawson. Andrew Dickenson, Ryan Gibson, and Ben Marten will also walk the Cheshire Ring. The walk will raise money for Mind, a mental health charity. Kyle respects Mind’s work and thinks they could have helped his stepbrother.

He believes Mind might have even saved his life. The group aims to complete the circuit in three days. The 98-mile walk honors Martin and helps Mind continue its work.

The route follows Cheshire’s canals, starting in Middlewich. They will pass through Northwich, Warrington, Manchester, Macclesfield and Congleton.

Kyle said the walkers are Martin’s friends and had known him for many years. Mind brings together caring people and groups wanting to improve mental health. Kyle thinks Mind is the best choice for the money.

Their plan goes from Middlewich to Manchester on day one, then from Manchester to Congleton on day two. The third day sees them return to Middlewich. They hope to do 45 miles on the first day.

They did a practice walk last Sunday from Sandbach to Broken Cross, about ten miles. They carried weighted backpacks to prepare to carry luggage and realized how hard it will be.

The group plans to start on August 29, a Friday, and finish on August 31, a Sunday. Their finish line is at the Big Lock pub.

Kyle says mental health is a big issue, with most people having faced it directly or indirectly. He said any donations are greatly appreciated.