Run Britain Day 28: Abbotsbury to Seaton

An incredibly grim day weather-wise, but luckily I have been joined by my friend Nick and his campervan for some moral support.

I met Nick in March when I went up to the Lake District to join one of his Run Weekends. It’s not an exaggeration to say that weekend changed my life. I came back from my four days of running (and several hours of planning with Nick) re-invigorated and determined to run the coastline of Britain quicker than any woman had done before.

Sharing a section of this mission with Nick has been really special. There aren’t many people who understand what it takes to run this coastline and even fewer who get why I would want to do something so bonkers quite like he does.

As expected now that I am fully on the south west coast path, the route has become hilly. But the rain and the mud into the evening made for a difficult final push. The coast path between Lyme Regis and Seaton can be best described as a forest with a swamp running through it. And it’s that swamp that is supposed to guide you up and over all the hills.

By the time I reached my destination it was dark and the rain was pummelling into my face. But I was greeted by Winnie (the Old English Sheepdog) and, more importantly Primrose, the granddaughter of my generous hosts for the evening. Primrose is a really wonderful little girl who provided me with a huge amount of much needed enthusiasm and kindness, which I’ll take with me into the hills of Devon.