Market Weighton man to walk 500 miles around Scotland for brain injury charity

Ever heard a song that just is someone? For one family from Market Weighton, that song is The Proclaimers’ classic, 'I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)'. It perfectly captures the spirit of Lisa Packer, a mum remembered for her incredible energy. Now, her son, Alex Packer, is turning that song into a reality. This autumn, the 25-year-old is setting off on an incredible 500-mile walk around Scotland, all in memory of his mum. This isn't just a long stroll; it's a massive challenge designed to raise vital funds and awareness for a brain injury charity, a cause that has become deeply personal to the Packer family.

A tribute that literally broke the pub

Every family has its legendary stories, and the Packers' is a classic. It’s about a night in a pub in Applecross, a beautiful spot on Scotland’s west coast. Lisa Packer, Alex’s mum, got so into singing 'I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)' that the entire pub joined in. The energy was so immense, with everyone stamping and singing, that the floor of the pub actually started to give way and the ceiling downstairs caved in. It’s a moment of pure, infectious joy that perfectly sums her up. As Alex fondly remembers, “She’ll always be remembered for breaking the pub.” It’s this vibrant memory of his mum, Lisa, that is fuelling every step of his upcoming adventure. The challenge is even named 'The Lisa Packer 500' in her honour, a fitting tribute to the woman who could get a whole pub shaking.

The epic 500-mile challenge around Scotland

So, what does a 500-mile walk actually look like? Well, it’s a seriously tough journey. On 28 September 2025, Alex Packer will start his solo trek from Applecross, a place filled with happy family memories. His dad, Jago, will be there to see him off on what promises to be an emotional and demanding expedition. From there, the route is a huge loop around some of Scotland’s most stunning, and challenging, landscapes. This isn't just a walk; it's a full-on test of endurance. The planned route for the walk includes:

• Starting in Applecross on the west coast.
• Heading north along the rugged coastline to Durness.
• Travelling across the top of Scotland to the famous John O’ Groats.
• Walking south down the scenic east coast to Inverness.
• Returning to Applecross to complete the loop.

And get this: the challenge isn't over when he gets back to Applecross. The grand finale is the climb of Bealach na Bà, also known as the Pass of the Cattle. It’s the steepest ascent of any road climb in the UK, a final, brutal test for tired legs after hundreds of miles.

More than just a walk

This whole adventure is about so much more than just covering the distance. Alex will be completing the 500 miles completely unsupported. That means he’ll be carrying everything he needs on his back – his tent, food, clothes, the lot. Most nights will be spent camping out under the stars along the Scottish coast. It’s a proper solo mission. And it’s made even more remarkable by the personal battles Alex has faced. In the last year alone, he’s had two major hip operations to fix a condition he was born with. For many, that would be a reason to take it easy. For Alex, it's motivation. He sees this adventure as a real milestone. Alex Packer said,

“I’m really excited to start this adventure, It’s a turning point for me – to see what I’m capable of after my surgeries – and to be doing it in honour of my mum means the world to me. She was the light in my life.”

From Europe to East Yorkshire, a journey of strength

This epic walk around Scotland is the culmination of years of personal development for the lad from Market Weighton. It's a challenge that brings together all the strength he's built, both physically and mentally. He’s pushed himself time and again, from starting strength training when he was underweight to facing a fear of water to learn to swim as an adult. He even took on running despite his bad hips and travelled solo across Europe to confront his social anxiety. Each small victory and every obstacle overcome has been a stepping stone to this moment. The 500-mile trek is the ultimate test, combining his love for his mum with the resilience he has worked so hard to build. It’s an incredible story of turning personal struggles into a powerful force for good.

Raising awareness for a vital brain injury charity

The reason for this enormous effort is rooted in tragedy. Alex’s mum, Lisa Packer, passed away on 8 June 2025 after suffering a ruptured aneurysm. An aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel in the brain that can burst, causing life-threatening bleeding. It’s a sudden and devastating event. In the wake of this loss, Alex is channelling his grief into something positive. He’s raising money for Headway UK, the brain injury charity his family would have needed if his mum had survived. Headway does amazing work, providing everything from rehabilitation and therapy to support for families trying to navigate a completely new reality. They help give people a fighting chance to rebuild their lives after a brain injury. But Alex’s mission isn't just about donations. It’s also about awareness. He wants people to understand the causes of brain injuries, including things like high blood pressure, which can be a risk factor. He said, “I also want to raise awareness of brain injuries and their causes... Taking a minute to check your health could save your life or someone else’s.” It’s a powerful message, reminding us all that looking after our health is so important.

How to follow the adventure and make donations

Following Alex’s incredible journey is easy. He’ll be documenting his 500-mile walk on his Instagram account, @alpackerwalks, where people can see the highs and lows of his solo adventure around Scotland. For anyone who feels inspired by his story and wants to support the charity, donations are being collected on his JustGiving page. Every donation will go directly to Headway, the brain injury charity, helping them continue their fantastic work supporting people affected by brain injuries. The whole challenge is a testament to a son's love for his mum and his determination to create a lasting legacy in her name.

Donations Page: www.justgiving.com/page/thelisapacker500

Charity Partner: Headway UK (@headway_uk)