Steps for Swings: completed!
Jo Blunden has taken on the most incredible challenge over the last week, hiking from Cheltenham to Bournemouth. This was all in aid of raising £4,000 to install safe, secure playsets in two ECD schools.
The Challenge
This challenge was born out of Jo’s sheer determination to make a difference for the children she met in Kenya, after visiting in October 2025. One thing that stuck with Jo was that, despite having so little, these children were so happy, and all they wanted to do was play during their breaks. However, the equipment they had was not fit for purpose - swing sets no longer had swings, slides had holes in, and seesaws no longer bounced.
Wanting to make a difference, she set herself the challenge to walk from Cheltenham to Bournemouth. Self-proclaimed as a non-sporty person, this pushed her far beyond her comfort zone.
The Journey
Jo faced adverse weather conditions, blisters on blisters, path closures and unmaintained walkways. Despite this, she did it! She walked from Cheltenham all the way to Bournemouth and we couldn’t be prouder.
Here’s her results:
Day 1: 9hrs 11m | 18.52miles | 1,987 ft elevation
Day 2: 7h 7m | 15.06miles | 215.88 ft elevation
Day 3: 9hrs | 12.98miles | 1,122 ft elevation
Day 4: 3hrs 52m* | 7.46miles | 584.97 ft elevation
Day 5: 7hrs 17m | 28.95miles | 1,096 ft elevation
Day 6: 6hrs 36m | 13.13miles | 886.47 ft elevation
*Due to medical reasons, Jo had to cut her walk short on day 4. This was a tactical decision so she could rest up and complete the final leg of her journey.
The celebration
Jo crossed the finish line in Bournemouth and celebrated in style at SOBO Beach with a silent disco - a brilliant way to mark the end of such an incredible journey.
A huge thank you to SOBO Beach for hosting and to everyone who came along, bought tickets and supported Jo. It meant the world to her.
The Final Push
As we’re writing this on 8th June 2026, Jo has made it to 94% of her target with only £224 to go. If you can, please help Jo cross the finish line. Every penny counts, so we can get the playsets these little learners deserve.