On Saturday 2nd May 2026, five members of the Scott Bailey LLP team stepped well outside their comfort zones and took on the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge – a demanding 107 km coastal route to be completed within 24 hours. The team took on the challenge in support of Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity that provides vital care and guidance to people living with cancer across the UK.
The route threw plenty at the team, from clifftop climbs and windy stretches past the Needles, to long, varied miles through Cowes and Ventnor. Even with rest stops, clear signage and GPS tracking, it’s going to be a seriously tough 24 hours on their feet.
How it started
It all began back in December 2025, when Partner Ben Ironmonger decided he fancied a challenge for the year ahead. What started as a simple idea quickly escalated, and before long, Ben had recruited a determined group of colleagues to join him.
Taking on the challenge alongside Ben were Katie Dougan from our wills, trusts and probate team, and apprentice solicitors Holly Mitchell, Joseph Hammond and Benjamin Bethell. Together, they walked the entire coastal path of the Isle of Wight, starting and finishing at Chale basecamp, raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support with every step.
“I’d wager everyone knows someone who’s been diagnosed with cancer”, says Ben. “Every one of them deserves the best support to meet their needs. That’s where Macmillan comes in – to help everyone living with cancer across the UK get the support they need, and transform cancer care for everyone who will be diagnosed in the future.”
The challenge
Covering 107 km with approximately 1,800 metres of elevation, the route was no small undertaking. The team walked through the day and night, testing both their physical endurance and mental resilience. Joseph says, “it’s the kind of challenge where you dig deep, keep moving, and discover just how stubborn you really are.“
For Benjamin, the challenge was perhaps even tougher. “Over the last few years I have suffered with multiple injuries including a torn ACL and slipped discs in my back, rendering me immobile for long periods of time. I am never taking my health for granted again and I am so grateful to have been in a position to take on this challenge for a cause as wonderful as Macmillan.”
Supporting a meaningful cause
Cancer is something that unfortunately touches many lives, and the work carried out by Macmillan ensures that those affected receive the support they need, both now and in the future.
For two members of the team, this fundraising challenge was particularly meaningful. Katie lost her best friend Dani to cancer, aged just 34. Her memorial bench looks over the sea towards the Isle of Wight and Katie says she knows she’ll be there, spurring her on. Joseph took part in this challenge for Macmillan Cancer Support because his dad is currently battling cancer. At such a hard time, this challenge felt like a positive way to show support for his dad, and for the people who help families like his.
All of us at Scott Bailey are truly proud of what they have achieved, and of the £4,900 (and counting!) they collectively raised for Macmillan Cancer Support.
How you can support the team
Donations can be made via their JustGiving pages. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help Macmillan continue its essential work.
