A Dorset woman who is currently walking 5,000 miles around the coast of Britain has been nominated for a prestigious award.

Claire Allen, from Okeford Fitzpaine near Blandford, started her massive trek on August 8 last year from John O’Groats in Scotland.

She has already raised more than £15,000 for homeless charities Shelter and Only A Pavement Away.

The 45-year-old anticipates that she will finish her challenge at the end of August and hopes to raise a total of £25,000.

Now it's been announced Claire is a finalist in the Endurance category at the GoCardless JustGiving Awards.

From more than 18,000 nominations, judges had the tough job of shortlisting this group of people down to 21 inspiring finalists, three in each of the seven awards categories.

Before Claire set out on her long walk she worked in the charity sector in Bristol this exposed her to homelessness, but this walk has shown her a different perspective to living without a safe, secure base.

Claire said “I knew I wanted to fundraise along the way, but it was only after I'd been walking for a few weeks that I settled on homelessness as the cause I wanted to support.”

Claire just above Shenavall bothy on the Cape Wrath Trail in July 2024 (Image: Claire Allen/JustGiving) She added: “I have had a few challenges along the way namely the weather, suspected Lyme Disease and I’ve had to chase away a hungry fox from my tent, but I’ve learned that I can withstand most things as there’s somewhere safe, dry and warm to sleep at the end of every day.

“I feel in equal measures surprised, delighted and proud to have been nominated alongside incredible people doing extraordinary things."

Pascale Harvie, President and General Manager at JustGiving said: “Claire’s dedication to helping prevent and support those affected by homelessness is remarkable and we wish her the very best in completing her mammoth 5,000 mile challenge.

“What she has achieved already is nothing short of amazing and we cannot wait to celebrate Claire and all of our incredible finalists at what will be our twelfth award ceremony."  

The eight winners will be announced on the evening of Wednesday, September 18.

Members of the public have the opportunity to vote for the fundraisers they want to win at https://page.justgiving.com/justgiving-awards-vote

To support Claire's fundraiser visit https://www.justgiving.com/team/claires-great-british-walk