Derek

“Del Boy”

I had a number of nicknames growing up in Scotland. Since settling in the south east of England, Only Fools and Horses has provided an alternative.

I worked for 40 years in the Financial Services Sector. Having retired, I now have the time to take part in a wide range of activities, including being an active member of the Harpenden Trust.

I have lived in Harpenden for 25 years, and Trust membership provides the opportunity to give support to the community. This year I am driving elderly people to events organised by the Trust and supporting the Christmas fund raising efforts.

Since the start of lockdown restrictions, daily exercise through regular walks has been a key part of my personal wellbeing. I have also rediscoveed the local gym. This has given me a basis to prepare for the West Highland Way (WHW) walk in May.

I am excited and feel privileged to take part in the walk. Fund raising for Prostate Cancer UK is a key motivation, but so is the group. I will be undertaking the walk with great long standing friends and as well as new ones joining the journey. There will be challenges, but we will enjoy ourselves as we celebrate the life of our dear friend Stuart. We will reminisce about all the good times we spent in his company.  

Personally, the walk will be a real challenge for me. Apart from the odd walks in Glen Doll as a teenager I have no long distance walking experience. I have also had knee replacements in 2017 and 2018 and need to ensure that physically I am fully fit to meet the goal of finishing the walk in Fort William on May 31^st.

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Listen to Derek’s interview with Surrey Hills Radio.

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Derek’s Walks