Ottery 22-year-old to "fastpack" the England Coast Path

Lom Machin, who uses the pronouns they/them, set off from Sidmouth on August 13.

They are making their way around the 2,700-mile route by running and walking, with their camping gear in tow.

Their journey will take them over cliffs, along beaches, through seaside towns, and even into estuaries, and is expected to take around six months.

They are doing this self-funded challenge for Micro Rainbow, a charity supporting the integration of LGBTQI people fleeing persecution who reach the UK for safety.

Lom Machin is making their way around the 2,700-mile route (Image: supplied)

So far, they have reached the coast of East Anglia.

They said: "When complete, the England Coast Path will be roughly 2,700 miles long, running the entirety of England's coastline.

"I'm attempting to fastpack the entire trail - that means running where possible, walking where not, carrying my tent and gear on my back.

"This will take me over exposed cliffs, across the sand, through seaside towns and into estuaries (literally).

"I have some ultramarathon experience but, as an injury-prone runner, staying functional is likely to be my biggest challenge.

"As a challenge likely to take around six months, I'll also have winter weather to contend with."

They fell ill after reaching Brixham and had to return home for a few days but resumed their challenge from the same spot and are now on track to complete the journey in five months.

They said: "When the running gets hard, your support for Micro Rainbow will keep me moving.

"I've been incredibly privileged in my experiences as a non-binary person, so I intend to use this challenge to give to those facing increasing hostility."

To donate, people can follow the link from Lom’s Facebook or Instagram pages, where they are also sharing updates on their progress.