Five Valleys Walk anniversary celebration (From Stroud News and Journal)

Five Valleys Walk anniversary celebration

THE Five Valleys Walk celebrates its 15th anniversary this month and takes place slightly earlier in the year than in the past. The Meningitis Trust's fund raiser will be held on September 22 to tie in with the charity's awareness week. The circular route takes in all five of the Stroud Valleys and participants can tackle the whole 21 miles or more manageable sections, with Stagecoach running a free shuttle service back to Stroud from various points along the way. For the first time there will be a special fete where walkers can rest their weary feet. "As a thank you to all our supporters and to celebrate our 15th anniversary of this event we're holding a fete on Minchinhampton Common so that walkers can have some entertainment while enjoying a well-earned rest during the day," said the Meningitis Trust's Kate Walker. "For the first time this year we are also offering prizes to those individuals and groups that raise the most money." Meningitis is often seen as a disease that only affects children and the young but the Stroud-based charity is currently trying to get out the message that anyone can catch it. The special awareness week runs from September 22 to September 29. Over the last 14 years the walk has raised over £500,000 for the trust, with £45,000 brought in from last year's event alone. Entry forms for the walk are now available by calling 01453 768000 or by e-mailing paulaudritt@meningitis-trust.org Registration costs £3 for individuals or £8 for a family if paid in advance or £5 and £10 on the day.