Teen running UK coastline to support Family Action

On September 1st, 18-year-old Kyle Matthews, known as The Milky Runner, will embark on an extraordinary 3,000+ mile solo expedition around the entire mainland coastline of the United Kingdom.

Starting and finishing at Brighton Pier, Kyle’s journey – dubbed The Perimeter Run – will take him up the rugged west coast to John o’ Groats and back down the east coast, all while carrying a 15kg hiking pack with every supply he needs to survive.

This self-supported ultra-endurance challenge aims to raise £30,000 for Family Action, a charity that supports families facing hardship, mental health struggles, and instability – issues Kyle knows all too well.

Kyle shares,

I came up with this idea from a dark place. I was on the edge of taking my own life and needed something to channel that energy into. Running the perimeter of the UK became my call to action.

Kyle – who had never considered himself a runner – decided to prove what’s possible when you show up for yourself every day. Now, as a full-time chef at Salt Shed West Pier in Brighton, he’s been training, planning, and funding the expedition entirely on his own.

This run gives me purpose, I’m not a fan of running but knowing this could help thousands of people brings joy back into life.

Kyle chose to support Family Action because of his own experiences growing up in a troubled family environment. He hopes the funds raised will help tackle the root causes of mental health issues and family breakdowns before they consume others.

Heather Kearney, Deputy Director of External Engagement and Fundraising at Family Action said,

Kyle’s story is one of incredible resilience and hope. His decision to turn personal pain into a powerful mission to support others is deeply inspiring. At Family Action, we know how vital it is to reach families before crisis takes hold, and Kyle’s efforts will help us do just that. We’re honoured to be the chosen charity for The Perimeter Run and will be cheering him on every step of the way.

The Perimeter Run will test Kyle’s physical and mental limits. He’ll need to consume over 6,000 calories a day, often in remote areas with limited access to food or shelter – especially in the Scottish Highlands. He’ll face the brutal UK winter, running 25 miles a day through cold, wet, and windy conditions.

Despite the challenges, Kyle remains determined:

Every message, donation, and repost is fuel. The people supporting this are legends. I’m eternally grateful.

If successful, Kyle will become the youngest person to run the perimeter of the UK.