2019-05-20 12:45:37
A seasoned hiker from Flintshire will be putting his best foot forward this weekend as he prepares to take on a three day walk to raise money for Hft.
Stewart Allen will start walking Pilgrim’s Way on Saturday 25 May and faces a gruelling 134 mile trail from Bardsey Island to Bassingwerk Abbey. The challenge will see him travel through some of North Wales’s most famous landscapes, with the ancient route even passing the foot of Mount Snowdon.
This year marks Stewart’s tenth annual fundraising walk. The 62 year old started taking on walking challenges for various charities after finding exercise to be an escape from his busy role running a pet shop. The keen walker now packs in regular long and hilly walks and aims to cover a mammoth 1,500 miles a year to maintain his fitness. As he approaches a decade of raising money for charity, he’s calling for support from Flintshire locals by fundraising at his shop and on social media.
All money raised will go towards new sensory equipment for Hft’s service in Flintshire, which supports 270 people locally with day services and work opportunities. Sensory equipment at the service will allow for people supported at the service to develop and engage their senses in a safe and stress-free environment.
Stewart Allen said:
“I’m excited to be taking on my tenth fundraising walk, which is shaping up to be the toughest one yet. There are plenty of long uphill stretches and the trek is set to take around 44 hours in total. Luckily my friends and family are hoping to keep me company for the final few miles. It’s great to be raising money for a worthwhile cause that makes such a positive impact in the local community.”
Patricia Worsnop, Divisional Fundraising Officer at Hft, said:
“We are delighted that Hft is the chosen charity for this milestone trek. Dedicated fundraisers like Stewart are crucial in helping us to continue our work supporting people with learning disabilities to live the best life possible. The new sensory equipment at our Flintshire service which he’s raising funds for will make a huge difference to the lives of people we support. We’re wishing Stewart the very best of luck.”
To donate, visit Stewart’s fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/stewart-chrysalispets
Update: Despite battling the elements, Stewart successfully completed his challenge!
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
Location: Hft Flintshire
