Macmillan launches walking project
The 70-mile Wayfarer's Walk will be included as part of Macmillan Cancer Support's Way Ahead campaign this year
THIS year marks Macmillan Cancer Support's 100th birthday, and to celebrate the charity has launched it's Way Ahead Walk project taking on the Wayfarer's Walk, a 70-mile hike from the downs around Inkpen to Emsworth near Portsmouth.
The initiative challenges people of all ages to complete part of or all of the route in their own time, with the aim of raising £100,000 this year to help the 3,500 people who are diagnosed with cancer in Berkshire every year.
Macmillan, which was formed in 1911, hopes The Way Ahead will grow in years to come to help provide the much needed income the charity relies on.
The project has received acclaim from Lord Carnarvon, whose ancestral home, Highclere Castle is the setting for the popular television series Downton Abbey.
He said: “We are delighted that the Wayfarer's Walk and specifically the beautiful section which runs along the top of Highclere estate will be part of Macmillan's The Way Ahead campaign this summer.
“Be inspired and contribute all the more to Macmillan's wonderful work, helping those living with cancer.”
Richard Adams, author of the best-selling book on which the film Watership Down was based on, said: “It is delightful that the Way Ahead, which goes over Watership Down, will be enjoyed by so many worthy enthusiasts. Good luck to all participants.”
Anybody wishing to take part in the walk should click on the link below for further information and to receive a package of maps, discount vouchers and route details.
If you don't have access to a computer you can register at the charity's Hampshire office at Crown Chambers, South Street, Andover SP10 2BN, or telephone 01264 343813.
Macmillan hopes that businesses local to the route will hold their own fund raising events such as fun days and taking collection tins, as 97 per cent of the charity's income comes from donations.
There will be other events running throughout the year, such as a watercolour painting day at Combe Manor in Hungerford with famous local artist Frankie Cummins on September 3.
