A Lancaster business woman has passed a 1000 mile milestone on a solo trek to raise money for medical aid in the Middle East.
Ruth Herbert, a tattoo artist from Arnside who owns a shop in Lancaster, is on a six month 'Big Trek for Palestine' - a 4000 mile expedition to raise money for the MAP - Medical Aid for Palestinians charity.
She has set a fundraising target of £25,000 and by the end of her seventh week of walking had raised £20,000 and walked 1,000 miles.
Ruth set off from Arnside Pier in May and walked from the north to the south of England in just 24 days where she joined the ancient road and pilgrimage route ‘Via Francigena’.
This historic path runs from the cathedral city of Canterbury then passes through France and Switzerland, to Rome and then to Apuli, Italy where there were ports of embarkation to the Holy Land.
From Italy, Ruth is making her way through Turkey, as close as she can get to Gaza.
Since the beginning of June, she has followed the often hidden way markers on the Via Francigena passing through the countryside of northern France calling at Arras, Vraignes-en-Vermandois and Seraucourt-le-Grand and Reims, following in the footsteps of thousands of people who have made this same journey over the past hundreds of years.
Ruth then headed east making her way through the Parc National de Forets calling at Ville Sous la Ferté, LAngres and Besancon, where the flag of Palestine flew from the town hall.
Mayor Anne Vignot had raised the flag before a crowd of hundreds of local people as a gesture of solidarity with Palestine.
Ruth was invited to join the local activist group at the Doubs Communist Youth Summer Football Tournament, which this year was designated as a fundraiser for UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) for the benefit of the Palestinian civilian population.
Carrying all her belongings on her back, Ruth’s has spent several nights camping.
Despite the challenges of travelling alone, in all kinds of weather and with such a heavy load, she is positive and optimistic about her onward journey.
“I have been surrounded with kindness and positivity throughout my journey through France," she said.
"Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me, and to everyone who has donated. It’s a privilege to be walking the Via Francigena; beautiful countryside, beautiful towns and villages, beautiful people.
"This countryside is so incredibly beautiful, to be so close to nature while walking this historic path is a real joy.”
Ruth achieved the milestone of 1000km as she entered the ancient and beautiful village of Romainmôtier-Envy.
You can follow Ruth’s adventure on Facebook and Instagram @bigtrek4palestine
The MAP website says: "MAP's vision is a future where all Palestinians can access an effective, sustainable and locally-led system of healthcare, and the full realisation of their rights to health and dignity.
"Through our programmes in the West Bank, Gaza, East Jerusalem, and Lebanon, we work with trusted and experienced local partners to achieve this vision. Our programmes, designed and delivered by Palestinians, provide access to essential health services and build local knowledge and skills to address Palestinian health problems. In times of humanitarian emergency, we are ready to respond rapidly with aid and assistance."
Read more: Lancaster businesswoman begins 4,000 mile trek for Palestine - Beyond Radio
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