[Wayne Rowlands]
A dedicated member of the metal detecting community is set to take on an extraordinary 270-mile walking challenge to raise funds benefiting patients at the Royal United Hospitals (RUH) Bath, as well as other cancer charities.
Wayne Rowlands, known for his craftsmanship in creating bespoke coin cabinets for metal detecting enthusiasts, has long supported the local Rodney Cook Memorial (RCM) Metal Detecting Rally. The events organised by Gary Cook and his team of volunteers raise significant funds each year for cancer-related causes, honouring the memory of his father, who was cared for at the RUH.
In 2026, Wayne is going further than ever before. He will walk approximately 270 miles from Anglesey in Northern Wales, arriving in time for the first RCM Rally event near Newbury, Berkshire, on 4th September. The route will take him through nearby towns and villages in Wiltshire. He plans to cover 30 miles each day and will be joined by friends from the metal detecting community.
The challenge has a deeply personal meaning. Wayne recently lost his Nan to cancer and is dedicating every step of the journey to her memory, as well as to patients currently facing cancer.
Wayne says, “I recently lost my wonderful Nan to cancer. This challenge is for her, and for everyone who has lost someone they love, or who is currently facing the disease. Nothing will stop me from completing this, because it’s about helping others.”
While Wayne expects the journey to be physically and mentally demanding, he remains focused on the greater purpose behind it.
Wayne continues: “It will be incredibly testing, but it’s nothing compared to what people with cancer and their families go through every day. That’s what keeps me going.”
The RCM rally is recognised as Europe’s largest charity metal detecting event and for raising significant funds for cancer-related causes, including RUHX, the official NHS charity of the Royal United Hospitals Bath, which plays a vital role in enhancing patient care and supporting staff to benefit communities across Bath, Somerset and Wiltshire. To date, the team at RCM have donated over £280,000 to RUHX since 2018, and a total of £460,000 to all beneficiary charities.
Gary Cook, Founder of the RCM rally, adds: “The team at RCM are very grateful to Wayne and his amazing support for our events. In previous years, he has made beautiful display cabinets that have been auctioned off and have raised a lot of money for the charities we support. This year, we couldn’t be prouder of him as he undertakes this exceptionally long walk to the first RCM weekend event in September. When he arrives, we will have a drink waiting for him and some plasters for his blisters!”
Wayne’s remarkable challenge not only highlights one man’s determination but the powerful impact communities have when they come together.
If you’d like to support Wayne’s journey, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/helping-to-raise-money-to-beat-cancer-by-walking-270-miles
