86-year-old Peter completes 1,000 mile walk for North London Hospice…and announces new challenge!

October 11, 2021

86-year-old North London Hospice supporter Peter Murray took the final steps of his 1000 mile walk as he arrived at our Finchley site on Friday……and declared he would continue until he reaches 5,000 miles!

The sprightly pensioner who lives in Palmers Green began his challenge in May 2021 and has so far raised more than £2,000 for the hospice that cared for one of his sisters. 

But as he was greeted by our doctors and nurses and presented with a medal and certificate for his incredible achievement, the octogenarian revealed that his new goal was to walk 5,000 miles and raise more money for patient care after a challenge from his brother he couldn’t refuse!

“I was first inspired to start my walking challenge by Captain Sir Tom Moore,” explains Peter. “I’ve been walking up to 10 miles a time in my local community but as I neared my goal my brother Oliver said, ‘I bet you can’t get to 5,000 miles?’ Never one to turn down a challenge, I’ve decided to keep going until I reach 5,000 miles. It’s good exercise and I get to meet lots of wonderful people on my walks and I’m raising money for a great cause.”

Peter announces new 5,000 mile walk goal

North London Hospice’s Medical Director Sam Edwards was among those cheering Peter at the finishing line: “It’s because of dedicated supporters like Peter that we are able to continue to care for more than 3000 patients and their families each year. The last two years have been very hard for us all, so to see Peter reach 1000 miles was just what we needed to make us all smile. It is such an amazing achievement for Peter whose determination means he’s not stopping there! I look forward to seeing him again when he clocks up his 5000th mile – his new target! We are all cheering you on!” 

Peter Murray & Medical Director Dr Sam Edward

You can support Peter’s challenge here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/peter-murray-walks-1000-miles?