It was yet another record-breaking year for the Saffery Rotary Walk with both registration numbers and sponsorship funds raised reaching new highs.
The Walk took place on Saturday 8 June 2024, raising over £90,000 for 21 local charities, thanks to the fundraising efforts of more than 1,100 walkers.
Walk Chairman, Simon Milsted, announced the impressive figures at the annual presentation evening on Tuesday, hosted by His Excellency, the Lieutenant-Governor Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell CB, CBE at Government House.
Standout walkers received special awards in recognition of their efforts and each charity beneficiary was presented with their share of the funds raised by His Excellency.
Individuals receiving awards included Harry Wallace (Youngest Walker), Mike Pitcher (Oldest Walker), Anastasia Hardwick (Saffery Selfie winner) and Andy Baker (Prize Draw Winner, selected from all the walkers who raised over £200). Justin Taylor received the award for most sponsorship raised by an individual.
8-year-old team captain Ella Wright received an award on behalf of her fellow school mates who travelled over from the UK in June raising the most sponsorship as a single relay team. The Peter Walker Award for Endeavour was given this year to long-term volunteer, Richard Bichard, who has been a key volunteer each year since the very first walk 27 years ago.
Simon Milsted said: “The level of support we have received from our walkers is nothing short of amazing and the record-breaking number of registrations this year is testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved. Everyone’s efforts allow us to make such a large contribution to so many of the island’s hard-working charities.
“We continue to see the amount of sponsorship raised climb. In addition to facilitating distribution of funds raised, our annual presentation evening provides an opportunity to celebrate this and thank everyone who makes the Walk possible. Our regular army of volunteers and corporate sponsors are truly wonderful and are reflected in the special award given to Richard Bichard who has worked alongside us for so many years.”
His Excellency highlighted the importance of the charitable sector on our island, praising the large contribution and pivotal role the Walk continues to play in assisting so many well-deserving and hard-pressed charities.
Saffery Trust Director, Lisa Vizia, shared: “Giving back to the community in such a meaningful way is what the Saffery Rotary Walk is all about, and this presentation evening is not just about celebrating the funds raised, but also about acknowledging the incredible effort and dedication of everyone involved in making the Walk a huge success.
“The monumental difference made to so many charities throughout the lifetime of the Walk as well as the continued efforts and generosity of our walkers and those sponsoring them is incredible and worthy of celebration.
“On behalf of the Saffery Rotary Walk Committee, we would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to His Excellency, Mrs Cripwell and the staff of Government House for their hospitality and continued support of the event.”
