The Rt Rev Dr Martin Gainsborough, the Bishop of Kingston, and his loyal Border Collie, Jem, have accomplished a formidable 267-mile run along the Pennine Way, raising over £35,000 to support education in Zimbabwe.
The duo covered the equivalent of a marathon a day over 10 days, tackling a few of England’s most demanding landscapes – from the rugged peaks of the Peak District to the distant Scottish borders – with almost 40,000 feet of climbing.
Bishop Martin embraced the challenge after visiting Matabeleland in Zimbabwe in 2024, where he met pupils and teachers whose determination left an enduring impression on him.
He is aiming to lift £30,000 for brand new school projects, inspired by the difference education could make to children facing arduous and dangerous day by day journeys to class.
Funds will contribute to constructing schools comparable to St Cecilia’s in Lupane, which, despite being unfinished, has begun providing lessons to children in the realm.
Once complete, the college will allow many to review closer to home, reducing treks of as much as 10 kilometres that always prevent attendance – especially for women.
So far, over £28,000 has come through online donations, with £8,000 more given offline – and donations are still being accepted.
Reflecting on the journey, Bishop Martin described the experience as “pretty brutal” yet deeply rewarding.
He shared: “Running the equivalent of a marathon a day for ten days was pretty brutal because it is wild and mountainous terrain, and it is sort of easy to lose the trail. I believe it could be overstating it to say I enjoyed it, nevertheless it is deeply exhilarating to have accomplished it in a single piece! Jem, who was magnificent throughout, is now having fun with a more sedentary pace in Southfields.”
He added that the overwhelming public response – marked by generous giving, prayers, and encouragement – had made every step worthwhile.
“To find a way to make a difference to the lives of youngsters in our Link Diocese of Matabeleland in order that they now not should walk long distances to highschool means greater than I can say and makes all of the pain and heartache value it. Thanks be to God!” he said.
The Kingston Episcopal Area within the Diocese of Southwark, which Bishop Martin oversees, has maintained a longstanding partnership with the Anglican Diocese of Matabeleland, fostering friendships and faith across continents.
