71-year-old completes 4,000-mile charity caravan trip

Derek Hernaman spent 45 days on the road in early spring, staying in his nine-foot vintage caravan each night. His solo journey raised more than £15,000 for Bowel Cancer UK and Alzheimer’s Society.

The trip took in the coasts of England, Scotland and Wales, with Derek largely avoiding motorways and sticking to A-roads to stay closer to the sea and connect with communities. Campsite owners and well-wishers supported him along the way, often offering free stays, meals and donations.

The caravan itself, known as Mildred, is thought to be one of the few surviving examples of the early Safari Minor – a hand-built, two-berth model known for its lightweight design and oak-framed interiors. Derek fitted it with a modern electrical system to allow for greater comfort and independence on the road.

Despite a few mechanical hiccups, the journey was a success and Derek is already planning his next trip, a drive from Devon to the Arctic Circle in 2028, again towing Mildred, in support of new charitable causes.