In May 2026, Alex set off from Portsmouth on a Vespa with Pompeii, beneath Mount Vesuvius in southern Italy, as his destination. Four days and more than 2,000 miles later, he arrived after crossing ten countries and completing a challenge built around grief, resilience and the importance of talking about mental health.
Why the ride mattered
The journey was inspired by the loss of Alex's father and his friend Mathew. Those experiences showed him how grief can change the way somebody thinks, feels and copes, and how easily people can struggle without those around them realising.
The purpose of Pompey to Pompeii was therefore bigger than the route. It was a way to remember two important people, raise practical support for a local charity and make it easier for others to speak about grief, bereavement and mental health.
More than 2,000 miles in four days
The route took Alex from the south coast of England through France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and San Marino before he reached Italy. Doing that on a Vespa meant long days in the saddle, unfamiliar roads, changing weather and an Alpine crossing—without losing sight of why the journey had begun.
£6,541.01 for Solent Mind
The completed JustGiving fundraiser records one combined total of £6,541.01 including Gift Aid, contributed through 116 donations. That support goes to Solent Mind's work helping people across Hampshire who are experiencing mental health difficulties, as well as their families and those around them.
The amount matters, but so do the conversations the ride started. People donated and shared the challenge, while others spoke about their own experiences. That response was a reminder that honest conversations can help people feel less alone.
How Palletmove supported the challenge
Palletmove covered the cost of Alex's hotels during the ride and the Channel crossing. It was practical support that helped make the journey possible and allowed Alex to keep the fundraising focused on Solent Mind.
We are proud of what Alex achieved and proud that the company stood behind him. For us, being a Hampshire business is about more than the work we do in pallet supply and recovery. It also means supporting our people, our community and causes that matter locally.
If you or someone you know needs support
Solent Mind provides mental health information, services and support across Hampshire. If anything in this story feels close to home, please visit Solent Mind to find help and information. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.
Alex Tyrrell is a director of Palletmove. Read more about the team on our About Us page.