Kate Burns
6 March, 2025
News

World Book Day meets Middle-earth: Wilf’s epic walk to Mordor

Wilf from Chesterfield, now 10 years old, is on an incredible journey—walking 1,779 miles, the same distance as Frodo’s trek from The Shire to Mordor! He started this challenge when he was 9 to raise money for Asthma + Lung UK, hoping to inspire other children with asthma to stay active and not let it hold them back. He’s hoping to finish the walk before he starts secondary school.

A happy Hobbit on World Book Day

This isn’t his first big challenge: as previously reported by the Derbyshire Times, he grew out his hair and donated it to the Little Princess Trust. Proud Mum Kate says “His determination to help others always amazes me.”

 

So far, Wilf has walked 245 miles, and the support he’s received has been fab. Not only have friends and family been amazing- One of his favorite places, Board and Bean, a board game café in Chesterfield, has kindly supported him, which means so much to him.

 

Today, to celebrate World Book Day, he has gone to school dressed as Frodo and will even be walking in costume—fully embracing the adventure! His original fundraising goal was £220, but thanks to the kindness of so many people, he has already raised £310.

 

Celebrating a milestone at Board and Bean - playing The Hobbit Game
Celebrating a milestone at Board and Bean - playing The Hobbit Game Credit: Kate Burns

If you’d like to support Wilf on his journey, you can donate here: www.justgiving.com/page/wilfisgoingtomordor

One of Wilf’s many walks.
One of Wilf’s many walks. Credit: Kate Burns