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Preston man to trek 500 miles across Spain for St Catherine’s Hospice

Posted on - 24th March, 2016 - 12:00pm | Author - | Posted in - Charities, People, Preston News
Michael preparing for his walk, and Pamplona on the right

Michael preparing for his walk, and Pamplona on the right

A former restaurant owner is preparing to walk 500 miles for a Preston hospice.

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Michael Iaverdino, who lives in Preston, is spending a month hiking six hours each day across a Spanish pilgrimage route.

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The father-of-three recently retired from working at the San Marco group of restaurants, including Angelo’s and Pinocchio’s, said he wanted a new challenge.

He said: “It’s about 900 kilometres, just over 500 miles, and should take between 35 and 45 days, depending on how lost I get along the way.

“I’ve got a guide book and it’s actually an ancient pilgrimage route, so there are plenty of hostels and hotels.

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“They’re relatively basic, sometimes with just a bed, and sometimes with a big dormitory with 200 people sleeping there, so it should be an interesting experience.”

The route takes him from Pamplona, in the North, through to Santiago de Compostela in the far west of the country.

Michael, 67, who sets off in early April, said: “It came about quite by accident really. I saw a programme on TV about the pilgrimage route and my friend and I just decided to do it.

“Then someone suggested I take the opportunity to raise money for charity in the process. I know about the good work of St Catherine’s Hospice and it’s a well-loved local charity, so I know the money will be put to good use supporting people in the

“I’m looking forward to it but I am a bit apprehensive. I’ve never been the fittest person in the world but I’m training, doing lots of walking, and I’m doing this for myself, for the experience.”

Fundraiser at St Catherine’s Hospice said: “Walking for six hours every day for a month is no easy feat, and everyone here at the hospice is very impressed by Michael’s determination.

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“It sounds like it’s going to be a brilliant and very rewarding experience, and the fact that he’s supporting our charity along the way is even better.

“Michael’s right – all the money donated will be used to continue providing our specialised care here in the hospice and in the local community, for people facing life-shortening conditions.

“We wish him lots of luck and look forward to hearing all about his adventures when he returns home to Preston.”

You can support Michael in his pilgrimage by donating via Justgiving or if you visit Angelo’s restaurant collection boxes have been left on the tables.

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