Sometimes a big idea starts with something simple. In this case, it was just a Sunday walk and a question:
How far would it be to walk from Head Office in Leeds to Arbor’s New Holland site?
The answer? 63 miles.
And rather than leave it as a curiosity, a small team from Arbor Forest Products decided to turn the idea into a charity challenge.
Turning Steps into Support
Paul Bell, Josh Cocker, Matt Cox and Wayne Butler took on the two-day walk from Howarth Timber’s Leeds branch back to Arbor’s site in New Holland, raising over £3,000 for Andy’s Man Club, the company’s chosen charity.
Andy’s Man Club provides free peer-to-peer support groups across the UK, creating safe spaces where men can talk openly about their mental health.
With music playing, plenty of banter along the way and donations steadily rolling in, the team kept spirits high even as the miles began to bite.
Why the Cause Matters
One of the most powerful moments of the journey came when the group met a man involved with Andy’s Man Club who shared his own story. After losing both his wife and mother in quick succession, he found himself in a very dark place. Support from the charity helped him through.
It was a reminder that this challenge was about far more than sore legs and blisters.
Every step was helping support a service that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
The Highs, the Lows… and the Deep Heat
Of course, no endurance challenge is complete without a few memorable moments.
From questionable footwear choices to the early-morning realisation of just how far 63 miles really is, the group experienced the full emotional rollercoaster of a big physical challenge.
But what stood out most was the teamwork. Colleagues Phil Yell and Matt Dack supported the walkers along the route, helping keep energy levels up when motivation dipped.
Looking Ahead
Would they do it again?
Opinions vary.
Some say yes. Some say absolutely not. One is already thinking about going even bigger next time.
But one thing is certain: the team proved what can happen when people come together for a good cause.
At Arbor Forest Products, supporting our communities and looking out for one another is part of who we are. Challenges like this show that even a long walk can make a meaningful difference.
