03-07-2025
'The Bolton wanderer' returns from epic trek from UK to Italian city
A Bolton wanderer has made it home from Milan after completing a 56-day trek from Manchester to the Italian city.
Kai Flynn embarked on the journey in order to raise money for mental health charities , Andy's Man Club and Breaking Barriers, a Bolton charity that helps support young disabled children and adults.
The 24-year-old faced gruelling mountain ranges and an allergic reaction on his way to the Lombardian capital in Northern Italy, which saw him in hospital in France.
"It was just incredible," Kai said.
More: Tourists on cafe-less Pendle Hill - 'We could have starved if not for mint cake'
More: This coastal walk with 'beautiful views' is Lancashire's best
More: 'Mesmerising' waterfall walk with 'breathtaking' views that's an hour from Bolton
"I was nearly bawling in tears when I arrived in Milan."
Kai came across what he described as "crazy" thunderstorms while he was crossing the Alps.
(Image: Kai Flynn) He also took a more direct route, which entailed wild camping in the Jura mountains, which are a short distance north of the Western Alps along the French-Swiss border.
He added: "It was surprisingly hot, and it was amazing to speak to loads of different people in the rural communities.
(Image: Kai Flynn) "Everyone was so friendly, and I was speaking to people from Canada, and all across the world really.
"They were obviously quite shocked when they found out why I was there and thought I was mad."
The Bolton lad now wants to "walk across the world" and has his sight set on a three-year walking trip over to Asia.
"I've realised this is what I'm here to do, this is my purpose," he added.
Kai raised £2,200, £700 over his initial target, for mental health charities.
He said: "I want to give opportunities to people and young people who haven't had the best start in life.
"Whether that's clothes on their back, an Xbox, or a holiday to somewhere else in the UK.
"It's important to me that those less fortunate are helped by the walks I'm doing."
Back home safe and sound, the music producer's next walk is "one in the park" by comparison - a short trek from Middlebrook to Bolton town centre as part of an organised fundraiser.
