Blackwood Rotarian’s 874 mile Challenge
Donation protected
In support of the Friends of Aneurin Bevan University Health Board Breast Unit at Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr
During these difficult socially distanced times, it has been impossible for the Rotary Club of Blackwood to carry out its usual round of fundraising for both local and wider good causes. With this in mind, Rotarian David Ellis has come up with a great idea to raise funds, which the Club has agreed will be donated to the above campaign.
Over Christmas 2020, 75 year old retired Blackwood solicitor, David Ellis, was set a challenge by his children: an 874 mile virtual walk from Land’s End to John O’ Groats, starting on 1st January, to be completed by 31st December 2021.
He is departing from home on foot to walk locally and uses a special website to record each hike’s distance. In just under three weeks, he has virtually walked the length of Cornwall and is now in Devon. Goodbye Cornish pasties, hello Devon cream teas!
His wife Julia is amazed at his determination to build up his weekly mileage. “Three years ago he had to start from scratch after a leg operation. Now only snow or deluge will stop him from getting out on the local hills and dales”.
David has been a Rotarian for over 35 years and is very pleased that his friends and fellow Rotarians are willing to support him in his challenge and maybe accompany him on sections of his walk (Covid regulations permitting).
All monies raised will be donated to the Friends of ABUHB Breast Unit, who are attempting to raise £200k to provide the unit with the additional facilities the NHS is unable to provide.
David intends to provide weekly updates of his distance walked and virtual location.
David has walked every day this week including Wednesday when he had to take a detour due to flooding. His total for the week ending 23 January is 28 miles making it 105.75 miles since leaving Land’s End. His virtual location now is about half way between Okehampton and Crediton. Wistful thoughts of Devon Cream Teas are replenishing his energy levels!
During these difficult socially distanced times, it has been impossible for the Rotary Club of Blackwood to carry out its usual round of fundraising for both local and wider good causes. With this in mind, Rotarian David Ellis has come up with a great idea to raise funds, which the Club has agreed will be donated to the above campaign.
Over Christmas 2020, 75 year old retired Blackwood solicitor, David Ellis, was set a challenge by his children: an 874 mile virtual walk from Land’s End to John O’ Groats, starting on 1st January, to be completed by 31st December 2021.
He is departing from home on foot to walk locally and uses a special website to record each hike’s distance. In just under three weeks, he has virtually walked the length of Cornwall and is now in Devon. Goodbye Cornish pasties, hello Devon cream teas!
His wife Julia is amazed at his determination to build up his weekly mileage. “Three years ago he had to start from scratch after a leg operation. Now only snow or deluge will stop him from getting out on the local hills and dales”.
David has been a Rotarian for over 35 years and is very pleased that his friends and fellow Rotarians are willing to support him in his challenge and maybe accompany him on sections of his walk (Covid regulations permitting).
All monies raised will be donated to the Friends of ABUHB Breast Unit, who are attempting to raise £200k to provide the unit with the additional facilities the NHS is unable to provide.
David intends to provide weekly updates of his distance walked and virtual location.
David has walked every day this week including Wednesday when he had to take a detour due to flooding. His total for the week ending 23 January is 28 miles making it 105.75 miles since leaving Land’s End. His virtual location now is about half way between Okehampton and Crediton. Wistful thoughts of Devon Cream Teas are replenishing his energy levels!
Organizer and beneficiary
Sonia Stevens
Organizer
Phillip Williams
Beneficiary
