Celebrate the South West Coast Path
What better way to celebrate 40 years of the The South West Coast Path Association than being part of a very special event next Spring. The coast path will be split into 56 legs which will be done in a sponsered relay to cover the entire 630 mile path around Dorset, Devon and Cornwall (as well as the Exmoor coast through Somerset). The aim of the event is raising money to fund improvement projects throughout the route of the South West Coast Path in all four of the counties that it passes through.
A large number of countryside organisations are supporting the event including the South West Coast Path Team, the National Trust, County Councils and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty Teams, along with local walking groups & numerous tourism businesses. Media partnerships have also been secured with Western Morning News, Cornwall Today and BBC Radio Solent, Devon and Cornwall.
The event next April/May aims to encourage at least 30 walkers each day to take part in a series of sponsored walks. Meeting with a birthday party at Land’s End on 7th May 2013, the South coast series starts at Poole on 3rd April, with the North coast series starting at Minehead on 16th April. Each leg will be guided by local experts, rangers and path wardens, who are all assisting the SWCPA with this event.
Walkers will be asked to raise £50 of sponsorship each, so that further funding can be levered from relevant organisations via matched giving. Brian Panton, Chairman of the South West Coast Path Association explains:
“We are offering walkers the opportunity to specify which project their sponsorship supports, providing there is enough funding for that project to take place (otherwise it be used for the project most in need)”.
Brian continued, “People can take part in a half day or full day walk, through to a number of legs over several days, building a walking holiday. Whether people are walking long or short distances, coming from near or far, we hope that thousands of people will take part to support this spectacular coast line.”
Through individual sponsorship, grants, corporate sponsorship and matched giving, the target is to raise £250,000. This will enable over 40 improvement projects spread along the route of the entire path to be completed during 2013. These projects have all been selected to enhance the experience and enjoyment of walkers using the path.
From locals to visitors, dog walkers to family outings, hill climbers to gentle strollers – the South West Coast Path is enjoyed by many. It is used for recreation and business, is vital for the economy, whilst providing a tool for a range of charities to raise funds.
It is a unique part of our heritage and it needs help. So please get involved with the Great South West Walk and help put some love back into the Coast Path!
For more information, or to sign up to take part, please visit www.GreatSouthWestWalk.co.uk, or contact the SWCPA on 01752 869237.
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