In May 2026, five members of the Scott Bailey LLP team will be stepping well outside their comfort zones as they take on the Ultra March Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge – a demanding 106 km coastal route to be completed within 24 hours. The team is taking on this 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 will be throwing plenty at the team, from clifftop climbs and windy stretches past the Needles, to long, quiet miles through Cowes and Ventnor. Even though there are rest stops, clear signs, GPS tracking, and food along the way, 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 are Katie Dougan from our wills, trusts and probate team, and apprentice solicitors Holly Mitchell, Joseph Hammond and Benjamin Bethell. Together, they will walk the entire coastal path of the Isle of Wight, starting and finishing at Chale basecamp on Saturday 2 May 2026, 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 ahead
Covering 106 km with approximately 1,800 metres of elevation, the route is no small undertaking. The team will be walking 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.“
While the event is fully supported, with rest stops and medical assistance available along the way, it remains a significant challenge. Those who know Ben will have little difficulty imagining the mix of humour, determination and “motivational” sarcasm that will help carry the team through the tougher miles!
For Benjamin, the challenge is 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 proud to now be in a position to attempt 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 is 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 is taking 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.
The team is committed to doing what they can to raise awareness and funds for this important cause.
How you can support the team
If you would like to support the Scott Bailey team in their efforts, they would be very grateful. Donations can be made via their JustGiving pages. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help Macmillan continue its essential work.
We will be sharing updates on the team’s progress as they prepare for the event across our various social media channels (LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram) – and, of course, how they get on over the course of what promises to be an unforgettable 24 hours!
Training walk – Saturday 21st March
