Organisers of this year’s Circuit of Bath Walk in aid of Julian House have welcomed the “brilliant support” provided by around 450 people who took part.
Photo © Clare Green
The sponsored circular walk, which took place on Sunday 27th September and celebrated its 19th year, saw families, friends and colleagues taking in some of Bath’s most beautiful countryside and surrounding villages to raise vital funds for Julian House
Senior Community & Events Fundraiser Jessica Gay said she was delighted that so many people took part in the event, despite the obvious challenges this year.
She said: “We are so pleased that so many people took part in the event and the 20-mile walking challenge. This year has been so difficult for many, and for that reason we are even more grateful to see such support.
“Due to Coronavirus, Julian House has had to cancel or postpone all of our other fundraising events for the year and until recently we had closed our charity shops and bike workshops, which will result in a massive loss of over £200,000 to our income.
“This year we put in many essential COVID measures to keep our walkers, volunteers and staff safe during the event and we are pleased the event ran very smoothly and participants really enjoyed the day.
“We had brilliant support from families, and friends in their support bubbles, as well as those from local businesses including colleagues from Actual Experience, MEA Consult and Bristol University Press, who were taking part with colleagues that they haven’t seen for 6 months!”
Mark Saint, Director at MEA said: “In a first world economy/country, housing should be a human right. The system has failed and, sadly, we see evidence of that every day in Bath.
“The work of Julian House in supporting these individuals is commendable.”
Jessica added: “It’s a fantastic achievement that 80% of all who attended completed the full 20 miles! But no matter what distance they completed; it was the taking part that really mattered.
“Because of that, together they have raised an amazing £35,000! This is a record figure for our Circuit of Bath Walk event and will make a huge difference in helping keep our life saving services running.
“The money raised will all go towards supporting men and women who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness at this incredibly scary time.
“Our services are designed to not only address the symptoms of homelessness but also the underlying reasons why men and women are forced onto the streets.
“Because of this we put a huge emphasis on training, skills workshops, and growth development to help people within our care to gain confidence and re-build their lives. Something that’ll prove incredibly vital in the times ahead.
“Our thanks also goes to everyone who made the event possible including the 80 volunteers on the day, St Gregory’s School, Kingswood School and Bathscape Walking Festival.”
