A WALKING fanatic from Okehampton, who has twice trekked through Nepal for charity, is about to set off on her latest challenge ? a solo, two-month walk around the South West coastline.
Meri Cox, aged 63, aims to backpack around the 630-mile coastal path from Minehead to Poole, accompanied only by her 12-year-old collie dog, Smokey.
Meri said: ?In 2000 I walked for the Teenage Cancer Trust in Nepal; last year I did it for the new Okehampton Hospital, also in Nepal, and this year, I?ve decided to do it in the South West, for Hospiscare.
?It?s quite a challenge really, but I just love walking ? you have to do these things while you?re fit and have the strength!?
Meri intends to walk between ten and 12 miles a day, depending on conditions ? and the state of Smokey?s paws.
She also intends to spend each night under canvas unless it rains particularly heavily.
Meri estimates the walk is likely to take her about eight weeks ? and said the South West coast path had advantages over the mountains of Nepal.
?It?s much nearer to home, so at least I can hop on a bus to come home to cut the grass!? said Meri, a retired community nurse.
She said having lost her husband to cancer, raising money for Hospiscare was a particularly heartfelt choice.
?They do a wonderful job,? said Meri, who raised more than £5,000 for her first Nepalese trek and £4,500 as part of a group on the second trip.
To sponsor Meri call 01837 52887.