Frome author and historian Adam Stout, pictured, sets off on his fundraising walk from Yorkshire to Somerset today, retracing the steps of an eccentric 18th-century philanthropist who wanted to see the Glastonbury Thorn bloom at Christmas.

Adam will be following John Jackson's 220-mile route of 1752 through Barnsley, Birmingham, Droitwich, Worcester, Gloucester, Whitminster, Dursley, Thornbury, Bristol and Chew Magna.

Wherever possible, he will be avoiding main roads and following byways and footpaths.

It took Jackson two months at the age of 71, but Adam plans to complete the trek in 19 days, arriving in Glastonbury on Christmas Eve, and I shall be following his adventures on this page and podcasts.

Adam is raising money for the Pilgrim Reception Centre in Glastonbury.

If you would like to sponsor him, contact the centre on 01458 835572, or email prcadmin@glastonbury-pilgrim.co.uk