‘Travelling Blind’ takes on Trans Pennine Trail

A remarkable blind man is embarking on an incredible 300-mile walk along the Trans Pennine Trail, in a mission to highlight the importance of accessibility for individuals with disabilities. 

Andrew Elliker-Reeve, known as the ‘Travelling Blind’, will be taking on this challenge to raise awareness about accessibility and the incredible work of Guide Dogs UK. Andrew’s inspiring journey, set to begin on 7th September and take 22 days to complete, aims to raise funds for the charity. 

Andrew's story is one of resilience and determination. In his own words, he shares how he lost his sight, “On 12th February 2020, I went to York Hospital for elective surgery to help the blood flow to my legs. Before I went in I made 2 decisions - one was to treat my wife to a fantastic wedding anniversary (good idea). The other was to purchase seven books to read during my recovery (stupid idea). 

Some 10 days after the op I came out of a coma with no colon, no functioning spleen and no sight. I've got to admit this came as a hell of a shock! I clearly wasn't going to be reading those books. 

After going into septic shock in March, I finally came out of hospital in May 4.5 stone lighter than when I went in, in the middle of covid, wondering if I now had any purpose in life. 

My wife Rebecca was presented with a husband who looked 80 (I was 61) with a stoma bag, open stomach wounds, a feeding tube and a drain to remove abscesses from my inactive spleen. With the help of some district nurses at the start, she began nursing me back to health. 

Most of May and June I spent asleep but by the end of June I was good for walking at least 100 yards with the aid of a Zimmer frame. Bit by bit my wounds healed over, the drain came out and the peg feed was removed. 

By December I felt fitter and mentally strong enough to grab the bull by the horns and start learning to live my life as normally as possible with the disabilities I have - I am still really bad at being blind. 

From that point on I have tried to be positive in all my thoughts, and with the help of Rebecca and lots of very close friends, life is improving on a daily basis.” 

The Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) is supporting Andrew’s campaign and are committed to improving accessibility and inclusivity on the Trail, making it a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of their mobility. Supporting Andrew's challenge aligns perfectly with their mission, and they are excited to collaborate with him to further improve accessibility on the Trail after his journey. 

"We are thrilled to support Andrew in this incredible journey," said Mandy Loach, TPT Team Leader. "Andrew's determination and resilience are truly inspirational. Despite the challenges he has faced, nothing stops him from achieving his goals. We are glad to be a part of this event and to support such a remarkable individual." 

Andrew, who is from East Yorkshire, shared his excitement about the challenge, saying, "This journey is not just about me; it's about raising awareness and making a difference. I hope that through this challenge, we can inspire others to see the world differently and support the cause of accessibility for all." 

Andrew is currently appealing for help for various stages of his journey, including the walk from Denton to Hadfield. He shared, “I did have a full complement of guides, but as usual we have lost a few through injury and other family commitments. Being completely blind I can't do this adventure without incredible guides to help me. No guiding experience is required. So, if you are able, or know anyone else who may be, we are looking to fill spaces on the following dates: 

• 10th Sept: Latchford Locks to Sale Water Park 
• 11th Sept: Sale Water Park to Denton 
• 12th Sept: Denton to Hadfield 
• 18th Sept: Sheffield Outskirts to Killamarsh 

Transport is provided to return you to the start point each day. If you can help please contact me via Facebook or call me on 077194 90803.” 

Guide Dogs UK works for a society where people with sight loss are never left out of life, for a world where being blind or partially sighted is not what defines you. To date Andrew has raised £26,427 for them and hopes to raise at least another £15,000 through this campaign. 

You can read Andrew’s updates on his Facebook page: www.facebook.com/travellingblind/ 

Donations to Guide Dogs UK via this fundraising initiative can be made at: www.justgiving.com/page/travellingblind2025