I like Wimpy. A lot.
At 22, I was diagnosed with cancer, and the Teenage Cancer Trust helped tremendously when I was at my lowest. I've always wanted to do something big for the charity.
So, I've decided to unite my love of Wimpy with a fundraiser for the TCT.
I'm Wimpy's biggest fan, and I aim to prove it!
My Wimpy Tour 2024 will visit all the UK’s Wimpys in 31 days, travelling a total of 2400 miles, all whilst raising money and awareness for the TCT.
Wimpy turns 70 in 2024, and it'll be exciting to celebrate their platinum anniversary! I'm looking forward to discovering more about this brand's rich history, because, in my experience, a Wimpy is well loved in their local community. On my adventure, I'm excited to explore each Wimpy’s own unique story, meeting fellow Wimpy enthusiasts en route, and sharing their stories with you.
I've been ordering the same thing at Wimpy for 30 years; a burger with just ketchup and onions, plus chips. As part of my quest, I'll try everything I possibly can on the menu to find out once and for all if my simple order is the bee’s knees.
There are 64 Wimpys in the UK, the tour is 2400 miles and will take me around 31 days to complete. The northern most Wimpy is in Fraserburg in Aberdeenshire, while the southern most Wimpy is in Swanage, Dorset.
My map outlines the route, which I have optimised using the Wolfram Language, a programming language created by Wolfram Research.
Using this language, I've been able to plan the tours logistics. Here are some things I've done:
Back in 1979, my mum moved from Cyprus to the UK. Knowing little English at the time, she met a fellow Cypriot lady who was the owner of the Wimpy in Littlehampton, and they became lifelong friends. Maria became my Godmother when I was born, and many happy memories have been made in Wimpy over the years!
In 2010, I was diagnosed with testicular cancer and I faced a number of challenges whilst on treatment. My completion of my University degree during this difficult time remains one of my proudest moments. This would not have been possible without the support I received from the Teenage Cancer Trust, which I remain very grateful for.
To this day, I try to eat at Wimpy as often as I can, something which I am well known for amongst my friends. I enjoy the satisfaction of their familiarity, tasty food options, and the civilised manner of eating with a knife and fork. I’ve had some great conversations with friendly Wimpy owners and staff over the years since and always enjoy finding out more about their local communities and legacy of their restaurants.
I would like to offer a special thanks to my sponsors. Wolfram Research has been very accommodating for my trip. Not only have they sponsored the tour, they have allowed me to work part-time while doing this.
If you wish to become a corporate sponsor, please email me at me@zupnix.com.
