More than 150 walkers strode out to support St Richard’s Hospice on the charity’s popular annual Waterways Walk on Sunday, 2nd August.
Around 100 walkers took on the 21 mile circular route from Droitwich Spa Marina, along the restored Droitwich Canal and River Severn to Diglis in Worcester and back beside the Worcester and Birmingham Canal.
Other walkers headed off on the shorter 10 mile route from Worcester to Hanbury Wharf.
The local hospice hopes that walkers will raise in the region of £15,000 to help fund the care of patients living with life-threatening illnesses, and to provide support for their families.
Among those walking the 21 mile route were Helen and Tony Mullen, from Worcester.
Mrs Mullen said; “In the last 7 years I’ve become hugely aware of the great work St Richard’s Hospice do. In 2008 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and following surgery, chemo and radiotherapy I met some wonderful ladies who’d all been through the same. Unfortunately two of these ladies are no longer with us, but both benefited from the great work of St Richard’s. I was delighted to be able to do this walk and raise money for a great cause.”
Alison Parkes, Senior Fundraiser at St Richard’s Hospice, said, “It was a great day with all our walkers in good spirits. The weather was kind to us on the day, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the scenic walk along our waterways. We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part and made the day such a success. We are also grateful to all the volunteers who generously gave their time to help with registrations, water stations and marshalling, and also providing first aid and massages to walkers at the end of their walk. The money raised will help St Richard’s make a difference to the quality of life of our patients and families.”
The Waterways Walk is now in its sixth year and is kindly sponsored by Droitwich Spa Marina. First Aid was provided by Martin Bennett from Axiom Training. Walkers were offered therapeutic massage after their walk by Kathy Scott from Hands On At Work.