Hundreds brave the rain for London Bridges Walk

Despite the clouds and rain that blighted the skies, spirits were high as walkers set off from the beautiful Peace Pagoda in Battersea Park.

Participants chose between a five and ten-mile route. Both routes took in a whole host of famous landmarks and either five or 12 of London’s famous bridges.

Becky Gates from St Albans took part in the 10-mile route with a group of relatives. She said:

“My mum was cared for at the Peace Hospice Care Inpatient Unit during the last five days of her life last year. Everything had happened so quickly following her diagnosis and it was a terrible time for us all, but from the moment she arrived at the Hospice, the level of care she received was phenomenal.

“We decided to take part in the London Bridges walk as a family because we wanted to give back and do something in memory of Mum – that’s what she would have appreciated and wanted.

“We had a lovely day at the walk. Ten of us walked together – including my great nieces who are just four years and six weeks old! It was great taking in all the sights along the route, and we even managed to stop for coffee and lunch along the way.

“The rain didn’t dampen our day, and when we all arrived at Tower Bridge and were given our medals I know that our much loved mum and nan was there shining down on us.

“Supporting hospice care is so important to all of us because we know that there are so many more families who are going to be in the position we were in and it’s so important to raise funds to ensure that they can have access to the same care we did.”

Peace Hospice Care’s Jackie Tritton was volunteering at the Millennium bridge to marshal the route and cheer on the walkers as they passed. She said:

“It was great to see so many people turn out for our sixth annual London Bridges Walk. By the time the walkers got to us they were in good spirits and asking how much further to go, but were very determined to finish. It was great to be able to spur them on to the finish line. It’s always humbling to hear people’s reasons for taking part and that acts as a reminder of why events like this are so important.”

Walkers completed the route in their own time, which meant they had time to stop for refreshments or to take in the views on the route.

After three hours, the first participants started to arrive at Tower Bridge – the end point of their challenge. With tired legs and soggy boots, they were delighted to see the finish line and were awarded a finishers medal before posing for photos beside the famous landmark.

Peter Rasmussen, Events Manager at Peace Hospice Care, says:

“The London Bridges Walk is always a great day and this year was no exception – despite the weather. All of the walkers showed great spirit in completing the day with smiles and determination.

“The money raised through entry fees and sponsorship could cover the costs of running our inpatient unit for seven days and I’d like to say a big thank you to everybody who either took part, or supported somebody who did.”