Host's epic trek raises £30,000

By John Harrington

- Last updated on GMT

Related tags Walking Public house Coronation street

Host's epic trek raises £30,000
Licensee Darren Apps' amazing ability to overcome aching feet and a dramatic car-jack to complete his epic 944-mile charity walk shows that pubs do...

Licensee Darren Apps' amazing ability to overcome aching feet and a dramatic car-jack to complete his epic 944-mile charity walk shows that pubs do have a heart of gold.

The Kent host's 35-day trek from John O'Groats to Land's End, known as the Great British Pub Walk, has enabled him to raise more than £30,000 so far for the Variety Club children's charity.

A true battler, Apps may consider another expedition: "I expect some mad-cap idea will crop up," he said.

The stalwart licensee of the George & Dragon in Tonbridge was joined by friends throughout his journey. Accommodation, publicity and other support was provided by London & Edinburgh Swallow Group (L&ESG).

Asked to describe his trip's highlight, Apps quipped: "Finishing!", before adding: "When our friends joined us it was a big boost. I don't think we'd have managed it otherwise."

Another top moment involved stopping for a pint with Andy Whyment, who plays Kirk Sunderland in ITV's Coronation Street.

But the low point came when his support car was stolen during a lunch stop in Wigan.

"We had to replace a lot of essential gear that was stolen," said Apps.

"Luckily we had friends who helped to replace essential things like Sat Nav, mobile phones and walking shoes."

Apps added: "The idea of the walk was to show that we publicans are good people.

"With last year's licensing law reform, we were cast as demons - I think an awful lot of good comes out of pubs."

Donations for Darren's walk can still be made by visiting www.gbpubwalk.co.uk​ and clicking on "Donate Now".

An L&ESG charity gala at the Swallow Coulsdon Manor, near Croydon, on 28 September will celebrate

the completion of the walk.

To attend or donate a prize, email stacey.smith@londoninns.com.

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