An ambitious adventurer, hailing from High Wycombe is undertaking an epic journey from Canterbury to Rome, a gruelling trek of over 1360 miles, to raise funds and awareness for the charity, No Going Back.

Christopher Colman, 31, initiated the ambitious journey on May 27 along the historic Via Francigena, a revered pilgrim road.

The challenge comes as part of his crusade to aid No Going Back, a charity helping prison leavers find employment.

Colman is navigating the challenging terrain of the Italian Appenines and anticipates reaching his finishing line in Rome come early September.

His trailblazing venture will see him transcend three mountain ranges across five countries, including an unexpected brush with the Olympic Flame in Langres – a French town twinned with Beaconsfield.

The feat of endurance and commitment will culminate in early September when he arrives in Rome, rounding off an impressive spree of over 1360 miles.

Via Francigena, a pilgrim road over 1000 years old, has witnessed a kaleidoscope of ancient and modern pilgrims.

Notably, it was taken by Archbishop Sigeric the Serious of Canterbury upon his return from Rome in 990.

The Via was recognised as a Major Cultural Route by the Council of Europe in 2004, renewing its popularity amongst modern-day travellers.

Interestingly, as Colman explained, the bridge between his journey and the charity he supports is symbolic.

He said: "Medieval pilgrims undertaking this journey would have viewed it as a way to seek redemption and turn over a new leaf - to start their lives afresh.

"This is a key aspect of the work that No Going Back does - helping prison leavers to find employment and thus escape a cycle of re-offending to build stable lives for themselves".

Established in 2020, No Going Back has been instrumental in new lease on life for over 300 people, creating £12.64 of social value for every pound expended, and diminishing the £18 billion annual cost of reoffending incurred by taxpayers.

Colman documents his journey on Instagram and is accepting donations via Goodhub in support of No Going Back.

Each step ensures support for an excellent cause, and a leg up to those in need of a new leaf on life's journey.