Guernsey World Aid Walk appeal

As this year marks the 40th year of the event people are being asked to think back and tell their stories. The organisers are keen to hear from anyone who may have memories of the walk in years gone by, photos of the event or even some memorabilia.

Chair of the World Aid Walk Bella Farrell says, “2010 is a landmark year for the World Aid Walk and as such we are really keen to incorporate the event's history and people’s memories to make the 40th anniversary truly special.”

Over the last 40 years the event has raised more than three quarters of a million pounds for its chosen charities. Oxfam, Save the Children, Action Aid and Christian Aid have all benefited from the proceeds of the walk and two years ago the Guernsey based charity The Tumaini Fund was added as a beneficiary.

This 20km walk will take place on its traditional date the May Bank Holiday Monday which this year falls on May 3rd and for the second year will start and finish at Market Square.

The Chairman of ActionAid, Glyn Allen says, “The money generated from the World Aid Walk contributes around 10 percent of the total that Guernsey ActionAid raises each year.
For 2010 our share of the proceeds will go towards rescuing Street Children in India, by providing drop-in shelters, and also helping to relocate 2000 people in Western Uganda, evicted from their traditional land by a foreign company, so they can grow coffee.”

The walk started 40 years ago and anyone who was involved in the original organisation of the event is being encouraged to get in touch. It’s hoped some of the memories, photos and people’s keepsakes from previous walks can be used in the promotion of this year’s event.

For the 10th year Ipes will sponsor the event, Ipes’ Marketing Manager Tabatha Hawkins says, “we are pleased to be continuing our relationship with the walk especially during this landmark year. We will be encouraging our staff to take part in any way they can whether that be to walk on the day, help in the preparation of the event or volunteer on the road or at checkpoints.” (from icfeed)