The full distance route of 20km started from Rovers AC at Port Soif, with the half distance route joining in at Pembroke Bay. The ever-popular community fundraising event was able to go ahead for another year, after sponsorship was secured in the nick of time from a first-time supporter – local legal firm, Number 10 Advocates.
Peter Carey, chairman of this year’s walk committee, thanked the sponsor, volunteers and participants.
He said about 1,000 walkers had registered, with about 200 walking in Herm.
‘It’s a nice vibe here, with lots of children involved, and everyone raising awareness of people who are less fortunate than ourselves,’ he said.
‘A lot of work goes into this. And the funds that are raised go towards improving conditions in places like Africa and other locations around the world that aren’t as developed as we are here. The walk started in 1970. It’s a very important event, and great to see so many people contributing each year.’
The walk raises money for Christian Aid and three local charities, This is Epic, the Tumaini Fund, and the Eleanor Foundation.
Last year, it collected more than £6,600 for each of the charities. The total of this year’s efforts will be calculated in a few weeks, and distributed evenly amongst the four charities.
‘I’ve done the full walk for the past five years,’ said 11-year-old Niamh McGrath.
‘People in Africa need help, and this helps the charities have more money to help them.’
Her dad, Clint, said the walk had become a family tradition. Last year, they completed it in 3 hours and 45 minutes, which they were aiming to beat.
‘It’s a fun thing to do together, and it’s been sunny every year we’ve done it.’
Lucas Basra said it was a good opportunity to support charities. He was walking with his fiance, Ella Foss, who said their upcoming wedding had boosted their motivation.
‘We’re getting married next year, so we’re doing anything we can to lose some weight,’ she said.
The walk is run by volunteers – both those helping out on the day and those who sit on the committee.
‘This is quite usual for me, it’s my sixth or seventh time doing it,’ said 11-year-old, Ryan Van Vliet.
‘I’m only just recovering from the Siam Cup. But I’m very excited. Grandad set me a challenge to spot 10 different species of birds. It’s his birthday today.’
Grandad Richard said the Van Vliet family took part every year.
‘We do quite a bit of work for the Eleanor Foundation – it’s our main charity for our business, Cannon Asset Management. So we all chip in and get going, it’s great fun. And we’ve got good weather for it.’
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