From the Eastbourne Herald, 1st September 2006

A HIGHLANDER who yomped the South Downs Way to raise money for charity received a warm welcome on his return from friends, family and a local piper.

John Parker set off on the 200+ mile journey on August 15, in order to support The JPK Project.

The aim of the project is to provide a residential centre for adults with a learning disability in East Sussex and also provide practical training and work experience on site.

The 29-year-old, of the 4th Battalion Scottish Regiment, was inspired to complete the mammoth task by his sister Katie, who has a learning disability.

On his return on Monday (August 21) he was greeted by local piper Andrew Somerville from the Centenary Pipe School, who piped John home on the last leg of his journey.

John said, “I feel absolutely shattered but it’s a worthy cause, which needs to be publicised.

“It was wonderful to be greeted by so many supporters; especially my sister Katie, and her friend John Paul.

“I feel very proud indeed that I have been able to do something positive with my fit body, for others who can’t.”

It is believed that John, who was joined on the trek by regimental colleague Ritchie Uttley, has set a record for yomping the South Downs Way in the quickest possible time.

His aim was to complete the walk in four days and the actual time he spent walking was 53.20 hours.

The challenge has raised £1,000 so far with money still coming in from sponsors.

John’s mother, Jill Parker, who is project-co-ordinator of The JPK Project, added, “I am very grateful to my son and to all those people who have helped and supported both of them over the last few days, and for the sponsorship he received.

“This is a fantastic achievement that will go to help an awful lot of fantastic people.”

Lib Dem Parliamentary spokesman Stephen Lloyd said, “This is a fantastic achievement.John told me he was absolutely determined to finish on schedule even though it meant sewing up his own blisters to enable him to keep going!”

If anyone would like to make a donation to the JPK Project or find out more about it they can contact Jill Parker at 7 Wannock Avenue, Lower Willingdon, or call 486179.