Coast Path Forum
The South West Coast Path Forum is a biennial gathering of members, volunteers and wider stakeholders to discuss key issues impacting Britain's longest National Trail. It is your opportunity to influence how the Coast Path is protected, conserved and enhanced for future generations.
We kicked off our 2025 Coast Path Forum at Royal William Yard, Plymouth, where inspiring speakers shared their transformational journeys on the Path, discussing community engagement projects, the benefits of getting out into nature and the power of the trail in providing solace and healing benefits for those who use it.
Left to right: Lisa Franklin, Katie Ash, Julian Gray (Director), Sarah Mukherjee, Lorna Sheriff (National Trail Officer), Mark Radford and Sharon Thomas
Speakers included:
Lisa Franklin, SWCPA completer and fundraiser
Lisa Franklin walked the entire path raising money for the SWCPA and PAPYRUS, she shared her transformational journey on the path and taking on a fundraising challenge.
Katie Ash, Public Health Consultant
Katie spoke about the public health benefits of walking and how the health sector is rising to the challenge of engaging people to walk through social prescribing.
Sharon Thomas, SWCPA access advocate
Sharon spoke about her YouTube channel (Wheelie Fun Adventures), and the advocacy work she does to help raise awareness and understanding to enable people with disabilities to enjoy the trail and have a choice when accessing the SWCP.
Mike Radford, St Petroc’s Vocational Development Officer
For over two years, St Petrocs have been a part of the SWCP Coast Path Connectors Project, by training staff to become connectors and facilitating monthly walks for people who access their services. Mike spoke about St Petroc’s experience of being involved with this project.
Our panel discussion was moderated by Sarah Mukherjee, Co-Chair Natural England Landscape Advisory Panel
Sarah develops policy and engages with stakeholders at the highest level. Promoting good science, better regulation and best practice with the lightest environmental footprint. Previously, an internationally award-winning journalist with 20 years' experience of reporting accurately and impartially on a range of environmental issues.
