Rotherham's walkers join forces

The Rotary Club has organised the 25-mile Rotherham Roundwalk for 30 years around Wentworth, Wickersley and Whiston.

Rush To Walk has staged several charity strolls — mainly in Dinnington — in memory of Sandra Rush, who died of breast cancer in 2002.

The events have clocked up £175,000 for charity and this year have combined to create Rush Around Rotherham.

A Rotary spokesman said: “We have joined forces to create a walking day which we hope will capture the imagination of the people of Rotherham, from keen walkers to those who just want to raise money.”

There are four routes covering distances of three, seven, 12 and 25 miles, all starting and finishing in All Saints’ Square.

Entrants are expected to raise cash through sponsorship or donations. Half the total will go to Bluebell Wood.

Rush To Walk was founded in Sandra’s memory by friends Gillian Headon and Lyn Wilson, who lost her battle with pancreatic cancer last July.

Gillian said: “Whether you have taken part in either event before or not, please consider getting your entry in as soon as possible for a day which we hope will bring all the community together. “Whatever your walking ability, you will have a fun day out and be able to appreciate some of the wealth of countryside we have round Rotherham.”

Bluebell Wood head of fund-raising Helen Mower said: “This is a fabulous event that has proved very popular in the past. We hope that everyone will get behind it and support us.

“The money raised will help us to continue to offer our services to local children and young people with a shortened life expectancy and their families.”

The Roundwalk, as well as being a fund-raiser, has always had a competitive element with trophies awarded to the fastest over 25 miles.

For more details and how to enter go to the website www.rushtowalk.com, ask at the Visitor Centre in All Saints’ Square or call Gillian on 07967 802122.