Lovers of the South West Coast Path are being urged to get involved in an epic relay walk along the 630 miles of Britain’s longest national trail and help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the charity that protects and champions the walkway.

The Trailblazer Walk, supported by headline sponsor Cotswold Outdoor, will start in Minehead on May 12 and South Haven Point May 27 with a finish point at Royal William Yard, Plymouth on June 15 where the journey will be celebrated as well as the association’s golden milestone.

Some well-known faces will be taking part as trailblazers from all walks of life to help celebrate the anniversary. 

People can join a walk near their section of the path or try a new part. Walkers will be encouraged to purchase a commemorative limited edition of the South West Coast Path Passport. Launched last year, the Coast Path Passport is a unique memento and supports the businesses along the route that help enhance the path experience.

The Trailblazer Walk will provide a variety of options to suit all abilities and offers full-day walks or a choice of morning and afternoon walks.  

There are some challenging days such as Hartland Quay to Bude (May 21) which is 15 miles and graded as severe.

But if you prefer a long but steady walk, then the Portreath to St Ives (May 30) stretch clocking in at 17.5 miles might be an option. 

There are also plenty of gentler sections such as Penzance to Marazion (June 3) which is a fully accessible walk along a three-mile section with fantastic views of Mount’s Bay.

There will be an afternoon of celebrating on the final day in Plymouth on June 15. 

Beach of Dreams flags will accompany walkers as they enter Royal William Yard to make a spectacular display of 500 flags symbolising the incredible 630-mile journey and 50 years of the association.

This is also the launch date of the inaugural South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year exhibition in Ocean Studios, sponsored by St Austell Brewery. Expect to see stunning images of the coast path that explore personal connections, nature, urban and industrial heritage, and climate change; and images by the first Young Photographer of the Year.

The Trailblazer Walk is free to take part but there are limited spaces per walk and booking is essential. People can get tickets on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/swcpa-50th-anniversary-trailblazer-walk-1670699