Over the early May Bank Holiday weekend, I had the pleasure of joining an inspirational young man, as he embarked on the challenge of walking all 185 miles of the Thames Path in aid of The Brain Tumour Charity.

Eighteen months ago, Jasper Dix (27), a three time Oxford Rugby Blue, suffered a seizure while cycling to rugby training and was soon after diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour with a typical prognosis of one to five years. Emergency surgery on New Year’s Eve, was followed by months of treatment including radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Now, Jasper is taking on this amazing challenge to raise awareness of the disease and highlight the work of the charity that has helped him in so many ways as he navigates this devastating diagnosis.

Jasper set off from the source of the Thames, just a few miles from our office, in Cirencester on 4th May and will be finishing at the Thames Barrier on 25th May. I was delighted to join him on the first 18km leg, walking through the beautiful Cotswold countryside from Cirencester to Cricklade. Throughout the three week journey he is being joined by friends, family, teammates and colleagues as well as many fellow path walkers and their four-legged friends.  His epic challenge has so far garnered interest and support from radio and television, including an interview on Virgin Radio with Chris Evans as well as features on BBC South Today and local radio. His amazing positivity, resilience and desire to do something truly special shines through in every conversation and interview.

At the time of writing, Jasper has raised an incredible £78.000, with 6 days of his walk still to go. You can follow Jasper’s journey on WhatsApp at Jasperwalksthethames or donate at https://www.justgiving.com/page/dixjasper

Each year we like to support a charity that is close to one of our clients’ hearts and for 2026 we have chosen to support Jasper and The Brain Tumour Charity.