Registrations for this year’s Mendip Challenge are set to close at midnight on Sunday 25 May, with participants encouraged to secure their place ahead of the deadline.
The much-loved event, which is celebrating 35 years since it first took place, is open to walkers of all fitness levels. With 5, 10, 20 and 30 mile routes available, there is something for everyone, from those looking for a family-friendly day out to those aiming to take on a more demanding challenge.
Nicola Slark, Events and Challenges Manager at Weston Hospicecare said: “The Mendip Challenge is the biggest event in our fundraising calendar and one that has now been bringing our community together for 35 years.
“This year we’re welcoming plenty of first-time participants, alongside dedicated walkers who have been taking part for many years. It’s fantastic to see the event continue to grow while remaining such a special tradition for so many. We are expecting over 1,200 to take part, all walking to support the hospice and we are so grateful to every participant. With around 80% of our funding coming from our community, this support truly makes a difference.”
Along each of the routes, participants will enjoy stunning views, volunteer support and the knowledge they are helping to fund vital local care. At the finish, they’ll receive a medal and be welcomed back to the event village at Weston Cricket Club where food, drink and entertainment will be available.
One Mendip Challenge participant said: “My family and I have received support from Weston Hospicecare since my wife died there a few years ago and believe it’s so important to support the hospice. My wife spent nearly two weeks at the hospice and all of the staff were brilliant, the journey was made so much easier from the love and support we felt there. I can’t believe hospices aren’t fully funded, they absolutely should be because the support they give is incredible. That’s why me and my family take part in the Mendip Challenge each year and will continue to do so as long as we possibly can. We have family travelling from Kent and West Somerset to join us and we all do it to support the hospice and would encourage anyone who can to take part, especially if your family has been touched by their work and received care from them.”
The Mendip Challenge is proudly sponsored by Howards Motor Group, a long-time supporter of Weston Hospicecare.
Chris Lee, Managing Director of Howards Motor Group said: “We’re incredibly proud to return as main sponsor of the Mendip Challenge for another year. It’s a fantastic event that brings our communities together, encourages people of all abilities to get active, and most importantly raises vital funds for the incredible work of Weston Hospicecare. We look forward to seeing so many people take on the challenge this May.”
The deadline to register is midnight on Sunday 24 May. Book your space by clicking here.