Annual stroll raises over £73,000 for local children’s charities

More than 300 walkers took to the Hertfordshire countryside to raise an impressive £73,594 as part of the annual Great Big Walk for Herts.

With donations still coming in, Helping Herts, the official charity of Stort Valley Rotary Club, aims to hit a final fundraising total of £80,000 for local children’s charities. Organised in partnership with The Friends of the Hertfordshire Way, funds from the successful stroll will make a real difference to the 12 charity partners.

Gordon Morrison, Co-founder of Helping Herts, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people come together for such a great cause. The sense of community and the energy on the day was incredible, and the funds raised will help ensure that our charities can continue their vital work. We couldn’t be more grateful.”

Participants covered around 160 miles between them, with each charity leading a defined loop through picturesque towns and villages like Royston, Codicote, St Albans and Bishop’s

Stortford, showcasing some of the best scenery Hertfordshire has to offer.

Walkers ranged in age from 10 to 80, including staff from Helping Herts, charity volunteers, individual supporters and corporates, and even a few four-legged friends.

Jim Tatchell, Co-founder of Helping Herts, added: “It was a lovely day to be out walking with our team and charity partners, knowing we were all working together for such a meaningful cause. The Hertfordshire Way gave us some stunning views, and it was a great reminder of what’s so special about our county. “We’re already looking forward to next year and hope to raise even more for these fantastic charities.”

The charity partners include Grove Cottage, Hertfordshire Mind Network, Home-Start Herts, Herts Young Homeless, The OLLIE Foundation, Phoenix Group for Deaf Children and Adults, Playskill, Coram Life Education, Space Hertfordshire, For Baby’s Sake, CHEXS and Keech Hospice Care.

To donate, visit: https://thegreatbigwalkforherts2024.heroes.help/campaigns/Helping-Herts5