The former High Sheriff of Norfolk has completed a 1,500 mile trek, and has described the 'determination, stubbornness, and courage' he has witnessed along the way.

Eastern Daily Press: Crossing the Loire. Picture: Twitter/James BaggeCrossing the Loire. Picture: Twitter/James Bagge (Image: Twitter/James Bagge)

James Bagge set out from his birthplace in Stradsett near Downham Market 79 days ago, with his walk route set to take him along the west coast of France, and into northern Spain.

And on the morning of June 29, he completed his journey to Santiago de Compostela on the west coast of Spain.

The born and bred Norfolk resident said: 'The high of the trip so far has had to be walking into the square in Santiago, knowing I'd finished. I never allowed myself to imagine what that would be like, in case my back or leg gave in and I couldn't finish.'

The 65-year-old added: 'A low would be the solitude, when walking through less charming parts of countryside or through industrial estates.

Eastern Daily Press: James Bagge in Pamplona. Picture: Twitter/James BaggeJames Bagge in Pamplona. Picture: Twitter/James Bagge (Image: Twitter/James Bagge)

'But along the way I've met people from all over the world; Japan, Korea, the States, and they've shown me the horrific blisters on their feet. One woman from Brazil walked for 70km with a broken rib, they were exceptional and a highlight of the trip.'

The father-of-one continued: 'I wanted to do this walk to raise money for unpaid carers. When I was High Sheriff I worked a lot with volunteers and what struck me was the community around volunteering.

'But for unpaid carers they don't have that community and support. It struck me that I can do this charity walk as a choice, and with a destination to finish at. For them, it's not a choice and there's no definitive finish.'

He said: 'The funds will be used to support young carers looking after their parents or siblings, and we can provide a bit of respite and bring them into a group where they can share their experiences with other people who understand.'

Eastern Daily Press: Which way to turn? Picture: Twitter/James BaggeWhich way to turn? Picture: Twitter/James Bagge (Image: Twitter/James Bagge)

Mr Bagge set himself the target of raising £60,000 for young carers, of which over £44,000 including Gift Aid has been raised.

To help Mr Bagge reach his target in supporting the young carers of the county, visit: www.walking4norfolk.com.

Eastern Daily Press: A Brazilian lady who walked 70km with a broken rib. Picture: Twitter/James BaggeA Brazilian lady who walked 70km with a broken rib. Picture: Twitter/James Bagge (Image: Twitter/James Bagge)