Eight members of a Cumbrian charity are undertaking a mammoth walking challenge this weekend to raise awareness of their work.
The members of Anti Racist Cumbria, whose mission is to make Cumbria the first anti-racist county in the UK, are planning to walk the length of Hadrian’s Wall in three days.
Starting from Bowness-on Solway on Friday, the walk will celebrate 1,900 years of Hadrian’s Wall and celebrate the contribution Black and Brown people have made and continue to make across the wall.
Anti Racist Cumbria worked with M-Unit on the project. Niall McNulty, co-founder of M-Unit and trustee at Anti Racist Cumbria, said: “Hadrian’s Wall has a hidden heritage which does not get shared enough.
“I wanted to research, share and celebrate some of the Black and Brown people who have lived, worked and walked the wall. It’s a tough physical challenge and one I’m looking forward to with fellow supporters!”
People are encouraged to join them for parts of the walk to find out about the charity.
Patrin Watanatada, of Ambleside, said: “I’m Thai American and new to Cumbria. After half a lifetime in big cities, Anti Racist Cumbria has given me an early window into the vibrant diversity that does exist here. I’ll be joining part of the walk with my husband, who has Cumbrian roots, and our little boy.
“We’re excited to learn and raise awareness of the many people from all backgrounds who’ve contributed to the fascinating history and culture of Cumbria.”
Robert White, of Whitehaven added: “Last year I walked the Coast to Coast with a close friend. The difficulties of the walk made him eulogise his earlier trip across Hadrian’s Wall, and he urged that I do it. The walk will be an experience and opportunity to learn that could be defining.”
The walkers aim to arrive in Wallsend on Sunday evening.
