Veda Stewart

Walker / Guide / Supplies

Forfar

 

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Q How do you know Scott and Travis?

 

A. Scott & Travis became great friends when he was making preparations for the West Highland Way. As I had just completed the 97 mile WHW, I understood the enormity of the task that lay ahead for Travis & Scott. Working in the same department, we spent many tea breaks talking about the different terrain, route & what the duo could expect on their hike.

 

Q What is your experience of previous Travistrek ventures?

 

A. Last year, on the SUW, I was the driver of the back-up vehicle. Every morning I was so envious of the lads when I waved them off. I’d walk with them for an hour each morning before returning back to drive to our destination. It was great to get on the boots & walk back in to meet them with fresh supplies of water & juice. Worth it to get a HUGE welcome from Travis!!!! No way did I want to be driver this year – not with 270 miles ahead of us!

 

I have walked with Scott and Travis on various sections of the all the treks. Ian & I walked with them from the Drovers Inn to Tyndrum on the WHW, 14 miles in 4 hours--phew!!

 

On the SW, I felt proud to be part of the merry band of walkers as we stood at the finish in Buckie getting our pictures taken for the local press knowing that this meant so much to Scott. Travis is such a great dog & it is so obvious he loves being with Scott up in the hills.

 

Q What do you know about Guide Dogs?

 

A. Many, many years ago before us pensioners were married we both worked in Dundee & used to see the Guide Dogs from Forfar being trained around the city centre. I used to be in awe watching these beautiful Labradors working with their trainers & I always thought Guide Dogs were very serious loyal workers. Now I know Travis! Yes he is first & foremost a Guide Dog but also a great four legged fun pal too!!!

 

Q What are you looking forward to on the 2007 trek?

 

A. Getting on my boots & walking with Scott, Travis & Ian. The Pennine Way has been a walk on my wish-list for some time & who better to share the experience with! Having helped Scott to plan this challenge, I know that some days will be grueling but we can only hope for good walking weather & better still being part of this team to help raise awareness of the valuable help these dogs are for their blind companions & to help raise funds.

 

Q Anything else to add?

 

A. Yes, can’t wait till Easter weekend when Scott, Travis, Martin, Ian & I set off to do the Great Glen Way. All 78 miles for team bonding – and another Scottish long distance walk for Scott & Travis!

 

Veda Stewart