The Circuit of Bath Walk, raising much-needed funds for Bath charity Julian House, took place on Sunday 25th April and welcomed a record number of participants.
Photo © Julian House / Clare Green Photography
The sponsored circular walk, which is celebrating its 20th year, saw families, friends and colleagues taking in some of Bath’s countryside and surrounding villages, with most choosing to complete the full 20-mile route to raise funds and awareness for Julian House and the people in its services.
More than 580 people took part in the event, which is taking place twice this year.
Senior Community & Events Fundraiser Jessica Gay said she was delighted that so many people took part in the event, despite the obvious challenges.
She said: “After the success of last September, we decided the host the walk twice this year (25th April and again this coming September 26th) to enable people to take on the challenge and enjoy the route.
“I was really pleased to see many of our incredible supporters stepping out to help the vulnerable men and women in our care.
Photo © Julian House / Clare Green Photography
“This year continues to throw up many challenges for those in our services; feelings of extreme isolation and mental health issues just to name a few.
“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 Metro Bank, Patrick James Property, Actual Experience, Vertex Investment and colleagues from ORX Association who raised over £1,000.”
Ashley Green, Marketing & Communications Assistant Manager at ORX said: “We would absolutely recommend taking part in the Circuit of Bath challenge to anyone who is considering doing so.
“It was a tough 20 miles, but the sun was shining, and the sights were beautiful. We were amazed at the level of generous support from ORX, family, and friends, who all clearly see value in the work Julian House does for the community.
“Some of us have supported Julian House before – they are a brilliant local charity whose work to support vulnerable people across the South West is needed now more than ever. We were grateful to have the opportunity to raise money for Julian House and have fun while doing it!”
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.
“Thanks to everyone who took part, we’re on target to raise over £50,000. 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 uncertain times ahead.
“Our thanks also goes to everyone who made the event possible including the 60+ volunteers on the day, St Gregory’s School, Kingswood School, Bathscape Walking Festival and the wonderful volunteers at Wooley who hosted their own cake and tea stall.”
To find out more about the Circuit of Bath walk and to sign up to take on the challenge in September, visit: http://www.circuitofbathwalk.co.uk/.
