94-year-old retirement living resident beats 100-mile challenge target by two months
A 94-year-old man who lives at one of Housing Plus Group’s retirement living schemes in Telford has completed a 100-mile walking challenge in memory of his wife – two months ahead of schedule.
Determined Smudge Smith took on the challenge to raise funds for Severn Hospice, who cared for his late wife, Margaret, who passed away in 2007 after she was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.
Smudge, who lives in Frizes Leasowe in Ketley Bank, started his challenge on 3 July with the aim of finishing on his 95th birthday on 14 October.
However, spurred on by the support and generous donations of family, friends and the community – as well as the warm weather, he completed the challenge on 14 August – a remarkable two months early.
Despite beating his target date, he says he will continue totting up the miles until his birthday.
Smudge has raised thousands of pounds for the hospice in the last two decades – and this time, has already surpassed the £2,000 mark.
He said: “The care that Margaret received while at Severn Hospice was remarkable and I will remain eternally grateful for everything the team did for her – and what every member of staff there still does for local people and families, so this latest challenge of mine is the very least I can do.
“I’ve really enjoyed doing it, so much so that I won’t stop just because I’ve already hit my 100-mile target.
“While the weather has been hot, I’ve been getting out and getting it done first thing in the morning, starting at about 6.15am – and walking on average around three miles a day.
“It’s been great to have members of my family, friends and other people along the way join me for some of my walks. Another of the residents here at Frizes, Steph has joined me a few times too, which has been nice.
“For me, this is just a small token of my thanks to the incredible staff at Severn Hospice, every single person makes a huge difference.
“Thank you to everyone who has donated so far, it’s really appreciated as I know times are hard for people.”
Claire Przybylski-Garry, Retirement Living Co-ordinator at Frizes Leasowe, added: “All of us here at Frizes are incredibly proud of Smudge on not only completing his 100-mile walking challenge – but completing it two months early.
“It’s been brilliant to see his determination and enthusiasm throughout the challenge. He’s shown that age is no barrier to setting yourself a goal and pushing yourself to achieve it. He’s a total inspiration to all of us here at Frizes.”
In support of Smudge’s fundraising efforts, Claire is currently organising a raffle, with all of the funds going towards his fundraiser.
Smudge’s fundraiser is still open – and you can donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/smudge-smith-1
Claire Przybylski-Garry, Retirement Living Co-ordinator at Frizes Leasowe, and Smudge.
25th August 2026