Commentator to traverse UK in memory of friends who all died in last two years

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Mr Walker said he was inspired to take on the challenge through “tragic necessity” after his friends Robin Thomas, Martyn Settle, Stephen Isles, and George Hawkins – one of his son Arthur’s best friends – died in the last two years. I had known him 24 years, it absolutely shattered me.” He added: “He didn’t have anything wrong, he simply went to bed and that was it.” Another of Mr Walker’s friend’s, Stephen Isles, who had lived with a brain tumour for 10 years, died at the age of 53 in May 2022. “If I manage to hit the target, I think it will be one of the best things I’ve ever done.” Mr Walker has set up a JustGiving page to fundraise for the two charities, raising more than £10,000 so far out of a target of £25,000, which he said has been “really encouraging”. “As well as benefitting two incredible charities, throughout his Absent Friends Tour Rob plans to bring people across communities together, encouraging those who have lost loved ones to join him and celebrate their lives.” To find out more about Mr Walker’s fundraising efforts, visit his JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/team/robwalkersabsentfriendstour.