‘Town to tide’ challenge returns for second successful year and raises £9,000

More than 150 walkers and runners have raised £9,000 for local children’s charities after taking part in the second annual Barney to Beach event.

On September 14, Families in Grief and Wave Project North Devon teamed up again to host the challenge, which invites entrants to walk or run from Barnstaple to the coast.

With yellow weather warnings on the horizon, participants set off from Barnstaple Pannier Market to journey eight miles over variable terrain; covering the Tarka Trail, gravel paths, stone stiles and eventually a gruelling sand dune section to finish at Crow Point.

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Inspired by Australia’s City to Surf events, the running and walking event had a very British twist. While the Australian versions usually finish with a beach ‘barbie’ or a bacon bap, Barney to Beach finished with tea and cakes!

Above and below: Reaching the sea. Credit: Samantha Humble-Smith

Elite runners led the pack, with representatives from Bideford Athletics Club. Leigh Crossman was first across the line by just a second, closely followed by Dean Delahaye and Lauren Filer. Katie Nutt was the first female to cross the line.

But the event didn’t just cater for elite runners. Families in Grief and The Wave Project designed it to be an inclusive challenge that people could take on independently, or with friends and family. 

Above and below: More elation after reaching Crow Point in challenging weather. Credit: Samantha Humble-Smith

Each person finishing was awarded an individually-designed medal crafted by local primary school children.

For shorter legs there was a mile long race through the dunes and around 40 young people aged five to 15 took part, braving the weather to complete the challenge.

Above: Emerging through the dunes. Credit: Samantha Humble-Smith

This scenic journey from the town to the tide raised essential funds for the important work of two North Devon charities.

Both Families in Grief and Wave Project North Devon step in when families in North Devon and Torridge need support the most, delivering therapeutic interventions that set them up for a more positive future and helping them to manage the big feelings that come up after losing a loved one.

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Jasmine Bennett, North Devon co-ordinator for The Wave Project, said: “Barney to Beach 2025 was a great success. Fundraising events like this support our evidence-backed six week Surf Therapy courses in North Devon for young people aged eight to 18.

“Surf Therapy supports young people to build confidence and self-esteem, as well as developing positive social connections and learning new skills.”

Chris Walker, CEO of Families in Grief, added: “We’re all delighted by the success of Barney to Beach! Even though the weather tried it’s hardest to dampen the occasion, we were blown away by the support and enthusiasm of everyone who took part.

“The funds raised will help support our work with bereaved children and young people across North Devon and Torridge, ensuring that no family has to face grief alone.”

Barney to Beach was supported by more than 40 volunteers who gave up their time to help out and organisers would like to thank local businesses for their generous sponsorship.

Above and below: Credit: Samantha Humble-Smith