Launched live on BBC’s the One Show (16 May), four teams of walkers have spent the last few weeks embarking on an epic journey from Morecambe to their respective homes in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England.
Amit Patel from New Eltham, 38 and his internet sensation guide dog, Kika, joined The Big Walk as team England headed back to London in time for a celebratory Big Lunch – is an idea from the UK's annual get together for neighbours on Sunday 3 June, made possible by the National Lottery.
A former A&E doctor, Amit lost his sight five years ago, following a catastrophic haemorrhage behind his eyes. He hit the headlines earlier this year after @Kika collar cam filmed his daily interactions with people. The footage revealed a shocking perspective on the world, where people pushed and shoved the pair. Amit now campaigns for inclusion and accessibility and wants to use his time on The Big Walk to show people what can be achieved when you put your mind to it.
Amit is excited to get cracking on his leg of The Big Walk, setting off from Tamworth and heading to Birmingham on Saturday in time for a big community walk in the Royal Botanic Gardens. He said:“I love meeting new people and find that Kika is a great ice breaker, plus we love walking and like to prove that even though you have a disability, it shouldn’t stop you from doing what you believe in. It’s amazing to be able to go out and talk to people and meet people but I know not everybody can – communities need to be open to everyone and have space for people to join in. I really hope everyone takes part in The Big Lunch and gets to know their neighbours better on 3 June.”
