75 individuals undertook a Walkathon challenge on Sunday 2 July and completed a 25 mile walk from Tower Bridge London to the ellenor Hospice in Gravesend.

The walk has so far raised £11,476 for the charity but it is hoped the final amount will be nearer £15,000.

Hayley Brown, Events Manager at ellenor said: “This event is a real challenge which many people underestimate. Walking 25 miles is a huge achievement and to have so many people take part to support ellenor is fantastic. The weather was kind, although a little warm, but our walkers were cheered on by our volunteers at check points, who encouraged and supported some very tired people and feet, especially by the end. Watching everyone complete the walk with a real sense of pride was wonderful and to be able to finish in our Hospice gardens with their families supporting them is exactly what we are all about at ellenor.

lan Freeman, Walkathon participant commented: “We enjoy the challenge and when you are doing it to raise funds for a good cause it makes it even more fun. We have had friends who were cared for by ellenor and they did it wonderfully. We are also going to the next stage and walking 62miles (100km) in September to raise more funds for ellenor. Although this is a tough challenge we will still enjoy it and we hope to raise lots of money. We will be back for next year’s walk!”

If you would like to help raise vital funds to support families facing terminal illness in Kent and South East London or are interested in becoming a volunteer find out more at www.ellenor.org

Submitted by Cheri Strudwick