Southport attack first responder takes on final leg of five-day marathon walk

An awe-inspiring Southport PCSO is braving fierce heat today to complete the final part of his extraordinary five-day fundraising mission. 

Barry Calder is walking the equivalent of five marathons in just five days, visiting every operational Merseyside Police station before finishing at Rose Hill Headquarters in Liverpool later today (Friday 10th July 2026).

He began his ‘Walking for Hope and for those that Serve’ mission on Monday (6th July 2026) determined to raise as much as he can for Hope’s Help and Police Care UK. 

This isn’t just a physical challenge. It’s a deeply personal mission to support two incredible charities, raise awareness of trauma recovery, and honour those affected by tragedy and those who serve our communities every day.

He spoke on Good Morning Britain at 7:15am this morning and will be featured on ITV National News this evening.

He said:

“Today is the final day of my journey. Five days. One purpose.

“This walk has always been about far more than the miles. It’s been about remembering those whose lives changed forever, supporting survivors and families affected by trauma, and standing with the police officers and emergency workers who carry the impact of what they see long after the headlines have faded.

“As I take on these final miles, I’m asking for one last favour.

“If you’re able, please make a donation.

“If you can’t donate, please share any of my posts – one share could help it reach someone who can.

“You can find my page on Instagram and will be speaking later on ITV National News this evening. If you see the interviews, please help spread the message and the fundraising appeal.

“To everyone who has donated, shared my posts, sent messages of encouragement or simply believed in what I’m trying to achieve — thank you. You’ve helped carry me every step of this journey.

“Let’s finish this together.

“And after five marathons in five days… I think I’ve earned that long-awaited chippy tea tonight!”

Many people in Southport know Barry as a local PCSO, but before joining Merseyside Police he served for more than 30 years with the Metropolitan Police, including as an Armed Response Officer, Operational Firearms Commander, Police Medic and Royal Protection Officer.

During his career, Barry responded to some of the most challenging incidents in modern policing, including IRA bombings, the Westminster Bridge terrorist attack and numerous firearms operations involving severe injury and trauma.

Following his retirement from the Metropolitan Police in 2022, Barry chose to continue serving the public by joining Merseyside Police as a PCSO.

In July 2024, while still undergoing his initial training, Barry was among the first responders to the Southport attack. 

Entering Hart Street as colleagues detained the offender, he immediately began triaging victims. Drawing on his experience as a trained police medic, his decisive actions and emergency first aid helped save the life of an injured child.

Now, two years on, Barry is walking to honour those affected, support those still recovering, thank the emergency service workers who responded that day, and raise awareness of the lasting impact trauma can have on individuals, families and communities.

Barry said:

“Policing never really leaves you. Whether as a firearms officer or a PCSO, it’s about protecting people, making our communities safer, and being there when it matters most.

“Many of us carry trauma from what we’ve witnessed and endured. It used to be taboo to talk about mental health struggles, but that has to change.

“Reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness, it’s an act of strength.”

At the heart of this campaign is Hope’s Help, a charity founded in 2020 by a remarkable young girl and her family.

Despite being deeply affected by the tragic events of 2024, they have continued to help others with extraordinary kindness and compassion.

The charity supports families in need, helps Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, and has played a vital role in bringing together the surviving Southport girls and their families in safe and supportive environments.

Their work has helped build friendships, provide peer support and create a sense of community for those navigating unimaginable circumstances.

Barry said:

“This walk is about supporting them and the countless others they have inspired through their resilience, courage and compassion.

“The ongoing needs of those directly affected by tragedy are often overlooked once the headlines fade. The support, understanding and sense of community that Hope’s Help continues to provide is invaluable in helping these young people and their families on their journey towards recovery.”

75% of all funds raised will go directly to Hope’s Help.

The remaining 25% of funds raised will go to Police Care UK, the national charity dedicated to supporting police officers, staff, volunteers and their families affected by trauma, injury and wellbeing challenges as a result of policing.

The charity provides practical, emotional and financial support, helping people recover, rebuild their lives and access specialist services when they need them most.

Barry knows first-hand how important that support can be. He said: 

“Like many officers, I have been affected by traumatic incidents throughout my career, including the Southport attack. There were times when the symptoms of PTSD had a profound impact on both my personal and professional life.

“The support I received from Police Care UK made a real difference. It helped me access the assistance I needed, continue my recovery and remain in a role serving the public. I know first-hand how important that support can be, and I know I am far from alone.

“This walk is partly about giving something back to an organisation that continues to help police officers across the UK recover from trauma and move forward with their lives.”

Donate to Barry’s GoFundMe page here.

The Southport families recently commented on the governments response to first phase of the Southport inquiry, read more here.

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