Priest to undertake medieval themed pilgrimage

Stuart Huntley hopes to raise awareness of mental health and loss

A Devon priest is taking on a medieval themed pilgrimage in memory of his friend.

Rev Stuart Huntley, an ordained Church of England priest and a historical re-enactor, said his two day walk would be done in full medieval attire for his friend Will who took his own life.

The event will raise funds for suicide bereavement charity Pete's Dragons and 10 local churches along the route, he said.

Mr Huntley said Will's "vibrant love for history and enduring friendships touched all who knew him".

He said: "Will was a professional surveyor and loved nothing more than being steeped in historic places, his loss was so devastating for his family and all of us friends left behind.

"I thought it would be good to celebrate his life and support Pete's dragons who help bereaved families by walking this pilgrimage in period clothing."

Stuart Huntley and his friend Will, in the middle, used to re-enact historical periods together

The priest said he hoped the pilgrimage would help him "process his loss and reflect on the value of an integrated life".

He said: "I'm hoping too that this will raise awareness of mental health, loss and how we all need to come together to support each other.

"I've known Will for many very long 25 years since we reenacted the English Civil War period and after a break when I'd been away out of the country we had recently re-connected about a year before he took his life."

The pilgrimage will start in Canterbury and end in Folestone - inspired by a journey undertaken by Queen Ethelburga during the 7th century.