Howdens Hikers Walk for Life for Farleigh

The rural ramble takes in the beautiful countryside along the towpath of the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation between Heybridge and Chelmsford.

This family-friendly event is popular with walkers of all ages and well-behaved dogs are welcome too. There is a choice of two distances: a 12km route starting at Paper Mill Lock or a more challenging 24km hike that begins at Heybridge Basin. Both routes finish at the Teledyne e2v offices in Waterhouse Lane, Chelmsford.

Farleigh Hospice provides award-winning care, free of charge, to people affected by life-limiting illnesses and bereavement across mid Essex. As we are a charity, we rely on income from events like Walk for Life and we were delighted that more than 450 people took part last year, raising over £50,000.

Dan Burgess, the depot manager at Howdens trade kitchen suppliers in Maldon, has already signed up for the 24km walk along with five of his colleagues - Ailsa Stevens, Mark Ribet, Keiran Ribet, Lauren Chamberlain and Steve Kenneally. Between them, the Howdens Hikers hope to raise £1,000 for Farleigh.

Dan said, “I’ve been trying to be healthier this year and needed a goal to aim for, so I decided to do the 24km Walk for Life. A few years ago, I had my legs waxed to raise money for Farleigh – I hope this will be less painful! My colleagues really wanted to do the walk with me as we all know someone who’s been cared for by Farleigh, so we’re very happy to support this important local charity.”

We are facing a growing demand for our care and support so we are very grateful to any walkers who also get themselves sponsored like Dan and his colleagues. Debbie de Boltz, our Fundraising Manager, explains, “Over the past year, there has been a 10% increase in the number of calls per month to Farleigh’s advice line and so it’s really important that we are there for everyone who need us. Special thanks to the Howdens Hikers and to all of our supporters who are making every kilometre count by raising money for us as they walk.”

Please click here for more information on Walk for Life and to book your place now.