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Two weeks ago, Fraser Ellson, Surrey Choral Director for the diocesan Schools Singing Programme, set off with, Asher, a fellow chorister from Guildford Anglican Cathedral, to walk and cycle from St-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, following one of the ancient Way of St James or “Camino” routes. This morning, they had just 52km to go, and plan to finish tomorrow!

Fraser and Asher report that “It’s been an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, long hot days and unexpected rain, plenty of carb-heavy meals, and most importantly, wonderful people met along the way. A true once-in-a-lifetime experience, with some very impressive tan lines to prove it! But this hasn’t been easy. The challenge has been physically demanding, and those ankles are definitely feeling it now.”

Fraser’s pilgrimage aims to raise funds for music education in the nine diocesan Surrey primary schools he works with as part of the Schools Singing Programme. The schools may use the funds to help a child realise a talent they wouldn’t know they had, or might help pay for class-wide instrumental lessons. As Fraser says, “I truly believe music making at a primary school age is such an important aspect of a child’s development aiding in strengthening neural pathways, emotional connections, literacy and numeracy skills as well as the positive effect music can have on mood and outlook.” 

To date, Fraser has raised an amazing £3,375 and hopes to reach £3,600 - £400 per school.

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If you would like to support Fraser’s efforts as he finishes his pilgrimage, please click the button below to donate. 

Source: Guildford Cathedral‍