Great uncle travelling 17,000 miles in memory of Ernie, 5
A pensioner is embarking on a mammoth 17,000 trip from Sutton Coldfield to Sydney - while only using public-available transport.
Bob Taylor, 65, is undertaking the challenge to raise money in memory of his late great nephew Ernie Lee Allen-Bryan, who died this year aged just five months.
Ernie was grandson of John Allen, who is the chairman of Rushall Olympic. Mr Taylor is a supporter of the club and Rushall hare backing him in his challenge.
The trip, which will commence on December 27, will take him through far-fetched lands in Asia, Russia and the Far East, before journeying south into the Australian outback, and then onto Sydney.
As part of the challenge, he is restricted to spend just 20p per mile, including travel, accommodation and subsistence.
Mr Taylor is hoping to complete his daring feat by March 2 - giving him just 10 weeks to cross the finishing line.
He said: "It is from an overwhelming feeling of helplessness that has sparked the idea to undertake the 'Journey for Ernie' fundraising.
"Everyone around Ernie’s fantastic parents, Sam and Lee know that they can't do anything other than offer support, friendship and love to Ernie's Mom and Dad."
"Maybe, just maybe, we can help other parents in the future.
"Your kind donations will help to fund research into sudden infant death syndrome as well as contributing to bereavement counselling for parents, through the wonderful Lullaby Trust charity."
The cash will go to the Lullaby Trust, which provides specialist care and support for bereaved families. Mr Taylor has already raised more than £10,000.
To make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/journey-for-ernie
For more information, visit www.journeyforernie.com
