The sun was beaming this weekend as hundreds of people headed to Keswick and Coniston for this year’s Keswick to Barrow and Coniston to Barrow walk.
The 40-mile challenge from Keswick and 20-mile challenge from Coniston saw walkers raise money for charities close to their hearts, including St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston.
The route took walkers past Helvellyn, through Grasmere and on to Elterwater where others joined in at Coniston. Teams then carried on through Kirkby Moor to Dalton before finishing at Hawcoat Park Sports Club in Barrow. It was a gruelling challenge, especially in the heat but walkers powered through to finish with their chosen charities in mind.
St Mary’s Hospice put a team together, including staff members.
Corporate partnerships manager, Annabelle Holloway, took part in the walk. She said: “Having worked the Keswick/Coniston 2 Barrow walk as a support vehicle for the past three years, I had always said that I would like to take part as a walker.
“I was keen to see the event from a participant’s perspective and to experience the feeling of crossing the finish line.
“I didn’t quite realise just how hard the 21.1 miles would be and I chose a very hot year for my first attempt. I am absolutely blown away by my fellow participants’ grit and determination and the phenomenal support provided by my colleague Heidi and the St Mary’s team and the event organisers.
“I am delighted to have raised over £250 for my wonderful hospice and I am so thankful to all of off our walkers, my colleagues, our amazing volunteers and everyone who makes the walk possible year after year.”
Imani Osman-Bedding, communications co-ordinator also walked from Coniston to Barrow in aid of St Mary’s Hospice. Imani decided to sign up for the walk before starting her new position at the hospice and said: “It was an extremely hard event. I thought after the first hour or so, this is going to be a breeze but it just got tougher and tougher. I’m proud to have taken part and raised funds for St Mary’s Hospice.”
MKM Director, Paul Curwen, walked from Keswick to Barrow and his company sponsored the event.
He said: “What an amazing day. Delighted to have completed the K2B again this year in incredibly challenging conditions, and proud to walk for St Mary’s Hospice.
“Not only a great cause, but a great team to be a part of. Every walker brilliantly supported by volunteers along the route keeping the spirits up and keeping us fed and watered – and boy oh boy did we need that water. See you next year!”
Heidi Bowron, area fundraiser, worked tirelessly behind the scenes putting together the team, gathering fundraising and putting together a group of people who would support the walkers along the way giving out refreshments.
She said: “It was an absolutely amazing day. The sun was shining and although it was lovely for me not taking part in the event it was extremely hot for the walkers which just shows their dedication to the cause. We rely so much on the kindness and generosity of those who take part in events like this to make sure we can carry on the work we do. You are all amazing and deserve those medals and lots of rest too.”
