Walks And Walking With David Knockton: Walks And Walking

Walks And Walking - The Great South West Walk 2013

Walks And Walking – The Great South West Walk 2013.

I absolutely love the walks along the South West Coast Path and this year the South West Coast Path Association is welcoming people to take part in a special event to celebrate their 40th anniversary this Spring -“The Great South West Walk 2013 – putting 40 years of love back into the Coast Path!” The aim is to raise funds for small but significant improvement projects, over and above general maintenance of the path, throughout the route of the South West Coast Path in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset.

Walks And Walking – The Great South West Walk 2013 – Durdle Door Dorset

The Great South West Walk 2013 event in April/May aims to encourage walkers to take part in a series of sponsored walks which have been broken down into 56 legs and will be done in relay to cover the entire 630 mile path. 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 joining the anniversary event will be asked to try to raise sponsorship, with every pound making a difference, 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 want as many people as possible to take part. 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. More information about each leg of the walk, the dates and the corresponding improvement project is on our website.”

Walks And Walking – The Great South West Walk 2013 – Lantivet

Through individual sponsorship, grants, corporate sponsorship and matched giving, the target is to raise £250,000. This will enable over 50 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! 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 and numerous tourism businesses.