Hospiscare supporter Mark Vaughan is combining his passion for history and heartfelt appreciation for his local hospice by taking on an epic challenge in memory of his dad.
On Saturday 28th June, Mark Vaughan embarked on a 100-mile march that replicates the journey of historical icon, the Duke of Monmouth, in the lead-up to the Battle of Sedgemoor in 1685.
Mark aims to complete the challenge in just five days, dressed in full re-enactment kit, including a woollen uniform and authentic shoes made from leather and wood, and carrying a decommissioned 17th-century musket.
Mark’s challenge is inspired by the care his father, David, received from Hospiscare at the end of his life.
Mark explains, “2025 marks the 340th anniversary of the Monmouth Rebellion so I wanted to do something to celebrate that and give something back to Hospiscare. As the struggle grew for Dad in his last few days, the hospice was there with Mum every step of the way and they couldn’t have done more.
“Raising money for Hospiscare will allow this wonderful charity to help other families in the darkest of times.”
As the local hospice charity for Exeter, central and east Devon, Hospiscare cares for over 2,200 patients and their families every year across 1,000 square miles of Devon.
Mark’s father David, with granddaughter Seren
Mark’s mum, Glynis, has volunteered at the hospice’s charity shop in Cullompton since David’s death. She says, “I remember my husband saying, you get a diagnosis and then it’s a rollercoaster ride – your head’s not catching up with everything that’s going on. Hospiscare came in and it was just calm. They told us what we needed, and asked us what we wanted, and just took all the stress away. I can’t thank them enough.”
Mark will start his march at the Duke of Monmouth’s landing point in Lyme Regis during the final days of the Monmouth Rebellion, before tracing his path through Bridport, Axminster, Taunton, Bridgwater and Bristol.
Mark’s 100 mile route from Bridport to Keynsham
The challenge has involved some very careful planning on Mark’s part. He explains, “I’ll be marching in strange kit along roads during rush hour, and when parents are trying to get their kids to school, so it’ll be very busy.
“I’ll be carrying 17th century weapons, which of course may alarm some passersby! I’ve communicated with local police stations to explain that there will be a strange man in a red coat carrying a musket and reassured them that the weapon isn’t loaded, and I’ll be making sure no one gets hurt.”
Friends and family have rallied around Mark to accompany him on his challenge. His mum, Glynis, will join for shorter legs of the journey and his daughter and fellow re-enactor, Seren, will join him along the way. Members of the Taunton Garrison, Mark’s re-enactment group, will also march alongside him in their kit.
Mark and daughter Seren in full re-enactment gear
Mark has raised over £2,000 for Hospiscare so far and hopes that his challenge will raise awareness and more vital funds for the hospice.
He says, “I remember Dad as a man of service. He served his country with 22 years in the Navy and service in the Falklands War. He always provided for his family, right up until his retirement. I see him as a real hero, serving his country and his family, and always giving – never looking to take anything.
“When he died, it left a huge hole in our family. Having an organisation like Hospiscare was just so essential. This is the main reason I’m doing this challenge – to remember Dad and give a tiny bit back to Hospiscare for all the help they gave us.”
To support Mark’s challenge, visit his justgiving page here.
