CRAIG Newton took the first of many steps in an epic journey across the country today.


The 21-year-old from Orford bid fairwell to Warrington as he set off on the adventure of a lifetime on a quest to walk around the country for charity joined for the first leg by his friend Lawrence Griffiths.


With nothing but his camping gear and the occassional friend joining up with him along the way Craig is hoping his mammoth effort will raise funds for Warrington Youth Club and Youth UK.


He said: “I want to do it because it would be a lifetime achievement, it’s a great way of getting outside and experiencing so much of life.


“This is going to be the biggest adventure I have ever been on and it’s been a year and a half in the planning.


“I’ll be walking 40 to 50 miles a day and it’s going to take about seven or eight months to complete the 11,023 mile route.”


Craig, who is a volunteer at the YMCA, is also hoping to encourage others to get involved and hopes to link up with people on his travels.


Despite the daunting trip in potentially turbulent weather Craig has not been put off.


“I have worked in the outdoors and don’t like being cooped up indoors,” he added. “I’m looking forward to it.”


If you would like to sponsor him visit virginmoneygiving.com/craignewton2 and to find out how he does along the route log on to facebook.com/walkaroundtheukforcharity.