Hundreds Of People Take A Stroll To Raise £11,500 For Local Charities

The Great Southern Walk – a fundraising event where participants tackle a 15-mile countryside challenge or a more relaxed five-mile route through the stunning Kent Downs - has recently welcomed over 300 people of all ages and abilities and raised a total of £11,500 for two local Kent charities.

Now in its second year, the walk is organised by Rising Sun, a domestic abuse charity, and the Prince of Wales Youth Club, one of the UK’s longest-running youth clubs.

Participants in either the ‘Full 15’ or ‘Fun 5’ began their journey at Robert Brett House – the Brett Group head office in Canterbury – and enjoyed food and refreshments before setting off on an adventure through ancient woodland, quiet hamlets and rolling hills in the Kent Downs.

Sue Johnson, PA to the Director of Planning and Development at Brett Group, took part in the fundraising event: “This was my second time taking part in the walk, and it was nice to see the event so well supported again this year. It’s a great opportunity to get out in the countryside, enjoy some much-needed fresh air and exercise, all whilst supporting local charities. We even got to meet Nurse Nellie at the finish line!”

Nurse Nellie congratulated people at the finish line

Those walking the ‘Fun 5’ took a gentler route along the River Stour, through open water meadows and past views across Canterbury. Families enjoying the shorter route had the opportunity of a playground stop at Toddlers Cove before making their way back along the river to the event’s finish line at Robert Brett House.

Victoria Johnson, Brett Group Estates Administrator, who helped with the preparations for the event, said: “There’s so much that goes into organising a day like this - it’s been a pleasure to play a part behind the scenes in bringing people together to support both charities.”

Walkers took to beautiful routes along quiet, ancient woodland.

One of the charities to benefit from the event was the Rising Sun, who provide specialist support, including one-to-one sessions, drop-in centres for those experiencing domestic abuse, training for professionals, and specialist accommodation for young women affected by domestic abuse and at risk of homelessness.

The funds will also support the Prince of Wales Youth Club in providing a safe, welcoming environment where children and young people can build confidence, develop skills, form positive relationships and improve their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Lydia Todd, Fundraising Manager for Rising Sun, said: “The funds raised from The Great Southern Walk will be used to enable our dedicated team to continue providing specialist and individualised domestic abuse support to victim-survivors across Kent.”

Find out more about Rising Sun and Prince of Wales Youth Club.

To take part in next year’s Great Southern Walk click here for more information.