A GROUP of people are preparing to walk more than 35 miles in memory of their friend.

Last summer Lewis Jones died, aged 31, following struggles with his mental health.

His loved ones said: “Everyone who knew Lewis would agree that he was one of the most honest, kind, and caring people the world has ever seen.”

They added that he was a “dear loving friend, brother, cousin, and father.”

And this weekend a group of Mr Jones’ friends will embark on a mammoth challenge in his honour – hiking from Penarth Pier Pavilion to Pen y Fan in Brecon over two days.

The huge journey will be in honour of Mr Jones, while also raising money for Samaritans.

Penarth Times:

One of the walkers, 29-year-old Owain Davies, said: “We are taking on this hike to raise awareness about the growing mental health in men and women.

“This is a national crisis and – although there is a narrative building around male mental health – it needs to be taken more seriously.

“It’s also in honour of our friend Lewis Jones.

“We chose these places because we grew up in Penarth and often spend time at Penarth Beach. The Brecon Beacons were one of Lewis’ favourite places to visit, so it seems only natural.”

The group of walkers have been keeping as active as they can in preparation for the walk.

They will leave Penarth at 7am on Saturday, May 7, and plan to stay in Merthyr Tydfil overnight. The group then hope to arrive at Pen y Fan in Brecon on Sunday, May 7.

“We decided to do it over two days as it’s a long walk and to keep us safe,” added Mr Davies.

Every penny raised through this challenge will go to Samaritans – a charity which offers emotional support to those in emotional distress or struggling with mental health.

The walkers have already raised more than £1,000 and have a £2,000 target.

People can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/owain-davies11

The Samaritans can be contacted 24 hours a day, free, on 116123