A CHEQUE for more than £2,400 was handed over by Neil Howell to the Alice Cross Centre on Thursday, a result of his Camino Challenge fundraiser.

Last month, Neil Howell, a Teignmouth local and ex-chairman of the Alice Cross Centre, decided to take on the world-famous Camino de Santiago Challenge to raise money for the Centre’s new Heat Café.

Although there are many different routes, Neil’s involved a gruelling 300km hike over 12 days to from Porto, Portugal to Santiago de Compostela, Spain (believed to be the resting place of St James the Apostle).

Speaking about the event, Neil said: ‘As ex-Chairman, I’ve always been interested in the centre.

‘Now, my daughter is involved and is trying to organise the Heat Café. However, they need quite a bit of money to run it over the winter.

‘I haven’t done anything on this scale since my younger years, so I thought it’d be a good idea to have a go at this challenge and raise a bit of money.’

After finishing, Neil hosted a talk, where he told the story of the trip, explained the historical, cultural and religious significance of the trek and officially handed over the money.

Jackie O’Brien, current Chair of the Alice Cross Centre, said: ‘It was fantastic, really interesting and engaging with a great turnout. Neil really caught people’s curiosity and his presentation was met with enthusiasm, making even more money for the café on the day. A big thanks.’

The Alice Cross Heat Café was set up in response to the cost of living crisis. It’s on twice weekly, Monday and Thursday from 2–4:30pm and is a warm space for people to come and socialise.

The food is free or or based what you can afford. Books, games and Ipads are available and there are regular guest speakers. The next speaker is Martin Rich from Devon Communities Together, on December 1st at 2:30pm. He will be advising on how to save money on household bills and food, including practical tips on staying warm and getting government support.