After a two-year hiatus, the Five Valleys Walk returned to the footpaths and bridleways around Stroud today, 35 years after it was first launched.
Meningitis Now’s flagship sponsored walk saw hundreds of participants take on a challenging 21-mile route around the Stroud area.
Kat Hollywell, Fundraising Officer at Meningitis Now said: “The Five Valleys Walk is a great day out in the countryside and really does help Meningitis Now move closer to our vision, where no one dies from meningitis and everyone affected gets the support they need.
“We estimate across the UK 22 people a day get meningitis. That’s why this year we’ve asked every Five Valleys walker to raise a minimum of £22 in sponsorship or to donate £22 so that we can ensure everyone affected receives the support they need.”
Many walkers chose to start their day at Stroud Cricket Club before heading on to other checkpoints located at Nailsworth, Minchinhampton Common, Brimscombe, Lypiatt, Slad, Pitchcombe and Standish Wood. Those who chose to complete the full 21-mile route were able to collect stickers at each checkpoint in exchange for a well-earned pint back at the cricket club in Ryeford.
Kat Hollywell added: “This year we also celebrate the vital role that the people of Stroud and the surrounding areas have played in the fight against meningitis over the last 36 years. Your support so far has helped introduce five meningitis vaccines into the UK vaccination programme but in the wake of the Covid pandemic, we need your help more than ever.”
To find out more or to make a donation visit: https://www.meningitisnow.org/
