A FORMER paratrooper who this year completed a six-year walk along the UK coastline to combat depression, was recently in the Vale for a book signing.
In 2017 Christian Lewis set himself the challenge to walk the entire UK coastline, starting and ending on Llangennith Beach on the Gower Peninsula, after hitting rock bottom in his personal life.
Little did he know just how long it would take him to cross the finish line, especially with a three-month stay on the abandoned island Hildasay during the first Covid lockdown, and that the encounters lying ahead would change his life forever.
Now, six years later, Mr Lewis has finished his walk, accompanied by his partner, young child and loyal dog Jet, and he’s documented it all in book Finding Hildasay, dubbed as "How one man walked the UK’s coastline and found hope and happiness".
And Mr Lewis was recently at Penarth’s Griffin Books for a book signing.
On Sunday, August 6, along with his trusted companion Jet the dog, Mr Lewis met delighted locals.
Mr Lewis’ arrival caused quite a stir with the public – with queues out the door to get a signed copy of his book.
Griffin Books said they were delighted to host the latest mental health guru.
“What an honour and a delight to be joined by Chris Lewis (and Jet!) for a signing in the shop.
“We were blown away by the number of people Chris has helped and inspired and feel very lucky to be one of the few shops he'll be visiting.”
Go to griffinbooks.co.uk to find out more about Finding Hildasay and click here for their Instagram.
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