More than 170 walkers took on the inaugural 10-mile Men’s March in aid of Weston Hospicecare on Saturday.
The hardy hikers battled biting winds to walk from the Grand Pier on Weston Seafront to Sand Point via Weston Woods and Sand Bay, before following the return route back to the pier.
They were rewarded with a free pint of cider when they crossed the finish line thanks to event sponsor Thatchers Cider and a free pasty to refuel before congregating in the Grand Pier’s Regency Suite to watch England’s Six Nations clash with Italy.
Although the windy conditions made the walk challenging for those taking part, the weather remained bright, which reflected the positive mood of the walkers from start to finish.
Many were walking in memory of a loved one, while others simply wanted to take part in support of a local cause. However, all walkers made it safely and happily back to the pier in time to enjoy England’s 57-14 romp over Italy.
Event organiser Kelsey Dehaney said: “A huge thank you to everyone who took part, volunteered and helped support us put on the first Men’s March in aid of Weston Hospicecare.
“A special thanks to Thatchers Cider for sponsoring the event, to the Grand Pier for hosting us, to Wessex 4×4 and MRU who kept everyone safe on the day and to A1 Camera Club who helped our communications team capture the event.
“We are really pleased with how everything went and we have already had some really positive feedback from participants who enjoyed the event. We believe the event was a huge success.”
It’s too early to pinpoint how much the event raised for the hospice but 175 people parted with their cash to register to walk in aid of the hospice, and many sought additional sponsorship for the challenge.
Next up for Weston Hospicecare is Strictly Fun Dancing at the Winter Gardens on 23 March. The event, hosted by Homes Under The Hammer presenter Martin Roberts, sold out in just three hours.
Those looking to get involved in another walking event for the hospice should check out the Mendip Challenge on Sunday 2 June. The charity’s flagship event is expecting a bumper year in recognition of Weston Hospicecare’s 30th anniversary year.
For more information about the event and how to sign up, whether it is for the 10, 20 or 30-mile route, visit westonhospicecare.org.uk/mendip/.
The hospice has to raise 80% of its annual running costs through fundraising events, like the Men’s March, Strictly Fun Dancing and the Mendip Challenge, alongside revenue generated through retail and from public donations.
Click here to view the full gallery of images from the Men’s March.