Paul Minter is running 5,000 miles around the UK coastline to raise funds for an Armed Forces retreat. Did you meet him on his coast path route through beautiful South West Wales?

Paul’s journey from Llansteffan to Saundersfoot didn’t quite go to plan as he took the wrong path but this wasn’t apparent for a couple of miles. He pushed through bramble and stinging nettles, eventually finding a track, but it was giant hogweed that made his legs feel like they were on fire.

Paul sent out a big thank you to Sarah Burns and Jen Mathias who own Glamping@thepaddocks who looked after him from the main house as he stayed in one of their “lovely tents” before heading towards Castlemartin. The ranges there brought back memories as it was a place he had spent most of his life in the Army, firing all variants of weapons.

Chris and Rik Gully and Chris Clifford joined Paul for a few miles at the start of his run from Castlemartin to Neyland. He had stayed with Rik and family overnight and enjoyed a ‘feast’ cooked by Rik’s girlfriend, Holly.

The route from Neyland to Marloes required a four-mile diversion as the tide was too high at Sandy Haven, but Paul was struck by the stunning scenery of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. On his run to St Davids, he was joined by former soldier Brian Roberts who introduced Paul to some of his Triathlon club team mates as they set off for a morning sea swim. His journey continued to Trefin after a plant-based dinner and an overnight stay with Glyn and Jill Sheppard. Glyn had spent over 30 years in the Army and is an expert in mountaining and skiing.

Paul said: “There isn’t much he hasn’t done and people he doesn’t know. I could listen to his stories all day.”

“Pembrokeshire has been an extremely pleasurable place to run,” added Paul. “I have had plenty of support from local people and met many adventure goers along the way.

“I have been taken back by how lovely a lot of the secluded coves and beaches are. They really are stunning and families do not seem to be put off in enjoying themselves outdoors in all weather conditions, which is lovely to see.

“I am also happy to say that the county’s coast paths are well maintained and well signposted.”

Paul’s favourite beach was a secluded one north of Dale. “I never caught the name of it. But it’s by far one of the best I have seen in the 4,000 miles I have traveled so far.”

Paul Minter is co-founder and trustee of Head Up Charity, supporting mental wellbeing for UK Armed Forces. If you would like to donate to Paul’s challenge, please visit www.justgiving.com/Paul-Minter1 .