I’m Sandra, a postie with a passion for writing and the natural world. On the 1st May (Beltane) I set out on a solo pilgrimage from Easter Aquorthies Stone Circle in Aberdeenshire, to Glastonbury Tor in Somerset.

Whilst this is very much a personal and spiritual quest, it is also a chance to meet people and reflect on my journey through writing. I want to share my experiences and love of nature with others.

By undertaking this pilgrimage, I have both the privilege and opportunity to raise funds and awareness for my chosen charities, the RSPB and the British Heart Foundation.

Royal Mail’s current charity partner is the British Heart Foundation. By granting me leave to undertake this venture, I feel it’s only right to give something back to my employer. The British Heart Foundation is such a worthwhile cause which touches the lives of most, including my own family.

It’s been difficult choosing a single charity which can be linked to the essence of my pilgrimage. Whilst there are many which focus on conserving our nature and heritage, it was tricky to find a single charity which covers both Scotland and England, and includes all types of terrain - given that I would be passing through woodland and heath, coastal paths and inland waterways, farmland and urban landscapes.

As a result I’ve decided to raise funds for the RSPB, who manage all types of habitat UK wide, to protect wildlife and sensitive ecosystems, with the aim of increasing biodiversity. It’s really a no brainer as I LOVE birds. Wherever I may roam, there will always be birds. Their song will be my constant companion on the road.