Tim Jones and his dog Monty.

Tim and Monty aim to visit all 192 UK lifeboat stations.

An RNLI fundraiser has set out to raise £500,000 for the charity by walking the entire coastline of Britain with his dog.

Tim Jones, alongside Staffordshire bull terrier Monty, began his journey this morning (Friday 20 January) from Exmouth Lifeboat Station in Devon.

On the 6,000-mile trip, Tim and Monty hope to visit all 192 lifeboat stations. 

Speaking about the journey ahead of him, Tim said: “I’ve wanted to do this walk for a few years and now the time’s just right. It’s a big decision, but it’s motivating me that I’m not just doing it for myself. The fact that I’m raising money for the lifeboats is pushing me to do it.

“I’ve always loved being by the sea and admired the difficult work of the RNLI, so choosing a charity to support was easy. The fact that its volunteers go out in all conditions to save people is amazing and I just wanted to give something back.”

The duo could be on the road for up to four years, so Tim has had to think about how Monty will fare throughout the challenge. He said: “It’s going to be hard work. I’ve done a lot of walking in the past – weeks here and there – but nothing on this scale.
“I’m not sure how Monty’s going to do just yet, but I don’t think he’ll struggle – he’s got a lot more energy than I have but I’ll just have to take it easy on him and see how he goes.”

Packing for the trip has been a significant challenge, Tim commented: “I’m trying to keep the weight of the pack down, but I’ve struggled.

“When I first tried it was 30kg but that wouldn’t have worked, so I’ve stripped it back to the bare essentials, and that’s without dog food – and mine!”

Anyone wishing to donate can do so on Tim's JustGiving page, and his Facebook page will share updates on the pair's progress. 

RNLI fundraiser director Jayne George reacted to Tim and Monty's coastline hike: “The commitment of RNLI supporters never ceases to amaze me, but Tim and his canine companion have taken it to a new level.

“His challenge to walk 6,000 miles and visit every single lifeboat station en route is brave and inspiring. Thank you, Tim, we are all rooting for you.”

Image (C) RNLI