18th Scout Leader and District Commissioner, Simon Gates, has successfully completed the 112 mile trek from Cambridge to Brighton.

The Long Walk Home, which lasted 5 days and covered 6 counties, was originally set as a dare to get more people involved with the group, either as leaders or supporters.

The route took Simon along many country roads and footpaths in Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Greater London, Surrey and West Sussex, with only his maps, compass and scouting skills to guide him.

On completing the challenge, Simon commented,

"It's been a tough walk but also thoroughly enjoyable! There were definitely low moments along the way that really hit you when you're alone, but I dug deep, set myself targets and got though the barriers. It was both physically and mentally exhausting, but it was great using the skills I've learnt in scouting to get from A to B"

Simon started the journey south at 2:16pm on Saturday 15th August. Originally intending to stop at Saffron Walden, 15 miles outside of Cambridge, he continued well into the night, eventually finishing Day 1 at Bishop Stortford. With tired feet, he headed further south on Day 2, walking through the heart of Harlow, across the M25 and along to Chingford, twisting his left ankle in the process.

The extent of the injury forced him to forego a 12 mile stretch through London on Day 3, which ensured he could complete the stage on time. However, Simon was quick to adapt, pick up the pace on Days 4 and 5 to complete the walk ahead of schedule.

Commenting on his favourite moments from the hike, Simon added

"Days 4 and 5 were amazing! The North and South Downs are just the most amazing walking ground and I felt so positive it was unbelievable, even with the dodgy ankle. But one of my highlights was the open-air camping at Gilwell, something I've never done before, that was really exciting."

Along the way, Simon kept a video diary to report on his progress whilst updating friends and family via his Facebook account.

The Long Walk Home is named in recognition of Simon's roots to the South coast, having been born in Shoreham-by-Sea, living the first seven years of his life in Worthing and having numerous family connections between Bognor Regis and Brighton.

The hike took on an added significance this year following the deaths of Simon's grandparents, both residents of Hove, East Sussex.

Simon has already announced plans for the 'Long Cycle Home', which will take place over 2 days in August 2010.

Pictures and video footage from the Long Walk Home are available to view in The Gallery.