The 48th Poddle sponsored walk held last Sunday was deemed a resounding success by organisers and participants alike, with a good turnout and near-perfect weather.
The event had to be postponed last year due to the pandemic, serving a major blow to the Trust’s fundraising, and this year’s was forced to run under strict safety guidelines.
Socially distanced check-in outside and a pre-packed lunch bag instead of the usual buffet were a change from the norm, but the wide open space of Plaistow village green and the spacious Winterton Hall provided the ideal setting for walkers to spread out.
The route began at Loxwood North Hall and took in much of the canal, along with woodland and open countryside, providing scenic and varied terrain. Some walkers completed the entire 12-mile day trek, while others opted to do either the morning or afternoon sections.
Four refreshment stops plus lunch at Plaistow were provided thanks to Wey & Arun Canal Trust volunteers, ensuring walkers were kept well hydrated with tea and cake. There were also plenty of four-legged walkers in need of refreshment, too.
Organiser Margaret said she was hopeful that the Trust would raise £10,000 from the day and thanked all those who made it a success, particularly route planner and Last Man Chris Tavener and waymarkers Jim Nunn and Mark Feeney, along with all those who volunteered, walked, served food or raised sponsorship.
Donations can still be made by clicking on this link: https://weyarun.org.uk/drupal/poddle-donation.
