12/10/2026
The Strolling Saxon: 210 Miles of Courage and Determination
From being told he might never walk again to tackling an extraordinary 210-mile challenge across Sussex, Gav Collins is proving that determination can overcome even the greatest obstacles.
Known as The Strolling Saxon, Gav is undertaking an epic journey from Chichester to Rye between 10 and 19 October, raising money for good causes and walking, in his own words, “for those less fortunate than himself”.
But behind this remarkable challenge lies an even more remarkable story.
In December 2023, Gav was involved in a serious car accident that left him with an unstable spine and nerve damage affecting the entire left side of his body. At one point, he was told he would never walk again.
Refusing to accept that his walking days were over, Gav began the long and difficult journey of learning to walk again. His courage, resilience and sheer determination have now brought him to the point where he is attempting something that would challenge even the fittest of walkers.
And he is certainly not making life easy for himself!
Throughout his 210-mile journey along the Sussex coastline, Gav is dressed in full Anglo-Saxon costume from the era of 1066, carrying and wearing an astonishing 57kg of clothing and equipment.
An active member of both East Grinstead Community Bonfire and Seaford Bonfire Society, Gav is no stranger to historical traditions and elaborate costumes. However, this challenge takes his enthusiasm to an entirely different level.
Having completed the first three days of his journey, he has already received tremendous encouragement and support along the way.
His efforts are raising funds for three causes close to his heart:
Knight Support, Brighton, a charity supporting people experiencing homelessness.
The Trussell Trust, which supports a network of food banks, including those in Sussex.
Harbourside Gymnastics Academy, Newhaven, helping his stepdaughter travel to the USA next year to compete in a gymnastics competition.
Gav hopes to complete his extraordinary journey by arriving at St Mary’s Church in Rye at approximately midday on Monday 19 October.
For a man who was once told he might never walk again, those final steps into Rye will surely be particularly poignant.
From learning to walk again to walking 210 miles in full Saxon costume, Gav Collins is a remarkable example of what courage, determination and a generous spirit can achieve.
And when The Strolling Saxon finally arrives in Rye, he will certainly deserve a hero’s welcome!
Gav Collins
