Calling Lord of the Rings fans, hikers – or people looking for a new challenge!
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Lord of the Rings fans (or people who simply like the opportunity to get outside in the beautiful Lancashire countryside) are being urged to come forward to support our charity at a very special sponsored walk event.
Will you please join us?
Taking place this September, the Tolkien Trail walk will be held in aid of our charity as part of our Every Step appeal, and money raised could help support local individuals and families experiencing poverty, homelessness, displacement and disadvantage.
We’ve seen a significant increase in demand for our services as people in our area face acute crisis, and we’re asking walkers to sign up to join us for the special fundraising walk to help raise as much as possible.
Patrick O’Dowd, director of our charity, said: “The Tolkien Trail is one of the most popular walks in Lancashire, exploring the rivers and woodlands of the Ribble Valley.
“Lord of the Rings author J R R Tolkien stayed at Stonyhurst College during World War II while his son John was studying for the priesthood there and he is said to have been inspired to write extensive passages of the Lord of the Rings by the gently rolling scenery of the area, which became known as ‘The Shire’.
“We’re looking for as many people as possible to join us to take part in the sponsored walk which really will make a huge difference to the local individuals and families we work alongside.
“From those experiencing poverty to people accessing our homelessness services, those needing urgent support with finances or food crisis, to those seeking assistance as they build a new life for themselves and their families, we are here for both that time of urgent need but also for the long term as well.
“But we can’t do that without the kind support of local people in Lancashire and Greater Manchester, which is why we’re calling for as many people as possible to join us and help.”
From the village of Hurst Green, walkers will enjoy an easy riverside ramble with some splendid autumn colours on display in the ancient woodlands lining the banks of the pretty River Hodder before returning along the River Ribble via the impressive façade of Stonyhurst College.
The distance is just under 11km or 7 miles with 160m of climbing, taking approximately three hours at a leisurely pace.
The walk is part of our Every Step campaign which is asking people to take on a challenge in 2025 – whether mental or physical – that pushes them out of their comfort zone.
For those unable to take on the sponsored walk, there’s a range of other activities on offer, from runs to bake sales, gardening to reading challenges…and everything in between. People can choose their own sponsored challenge too if they prefer.
For more information, or to sign up to take part in the walk, visit: www.caritassalford.org.uk/everystep
To download the free pack with details of the sponsored walk visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/lancswalk
We look forward to you joining us!