Annual Charity Walk 2007
History has a habit of repeating itself, so they say, and at least from the point of view of
the weather 2007 was an almost exact copy of 2006. Dry morning, not too sunny and not too hot - ideal walking weather - but then, around half past two - the rain started. Fortunately, the majority of our Walkers started early, and many would have finished the course before the rain started. But all those, including our Intrepid Stewards, and the Sweeper - the chap who walks last to make sure everyone is alright - who got seriously damp, can console themselves with the thought that they were doing good!
many answers to the old question about 'how many Rotarians does it take to put up a tent?' that space forbids me from repeating any of them. That and the fact that I don't
want the Walk of Shame at the next meeting. Anyhow, bravely, I can state that the real answer is 'several.'
However, by dint of much Executive Action, and coming and going, everything was prepared and for a few precious moments the entire well-oiled machine was ready, waiting for the customers to arrive.
This year, the catering at the start was provided by Hot Stuff, a new mobile catering service, and very good it was too. There is something wonderful about the taste of hot breakfast, eaten outside, that is totally different to the same things eaten and drunk indoors. Maybe this is what appeals to campers?
The Walk opened, the Walkers arrived. Some by car, some by bus, and some, enthusiastically, on foot. One brave couple had walked five or six miles just to reach the start - and I can vouch for the fact that they made it to the end of the Walk, too! We had organised groups, individuals, scouts and school students, and those of more experience! (Which includes most of the Stewards!) This year, we even had The King walking.
But whatever the age, or occupation of our Walkers, you were all here with one intent. To raise money for Charities and Good Causes, and once again you have succeeded. Thirty five thousand pounds between you all. Plus, of course, anything which the ever-generous tax man will add on through Gift Aid. Wonderful. Even if the brollies had to go up on the way!
This year we offered a Walk Quiz, with prizes of £100 and a meal for two at the Heaton's Bridge Inn. This helped concentrate the attention a little bit, and a goodly number of Walkers were very careful form fillers! Of course, there is always plenty to see along the way, and at this time of year some of the sights are entirely natural.
As in previous years, we do have a rule that all participants must WALK and not PADDLE the course. Ten out of ten for effort, though.
But as with all good things the end approaches, and it's time to get the Sponsorship
form stamped and hand in the Quiz. However tired the muscles, the satisfaction is there
of a job well done.
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