THE Mayor of Barnsley is lacing up his walking boots and gearing up to conquer a 23-mile charity walk to raise money for two of his chosen charities.
Starting from Dunford Bridge and ending at Pastures Lodge and Hotel in Mexborough, the walk will take place next Saturday and will follow the Trans Pennine Trail taking in Penistone, Worsbrough and Wombwell along the way.
Mayor Coun Mick Stowe – who chose Barnsley Blind and Partially Sighted and Barnsley Hospice – will be joined by the leader of Barnsley Council, Sir Steve Houghton, chief executive Sarah Norman and MP Dan Jarvis.
Also dusting off their walking boots are a team from Barnsley Premier Leisure, a group from Berneslai Homes, representatives from Barnsley Hospice and a number of other council employees and keen hikers – bringing the group to around 30 participants in total.
Coun Stowe said: “I am so excited to be hosting my first charity walk and honoured that so many colleagues and friends are supporting me.
“Twenty-three miles is no mean feat and will certainly be a challenge, but tired legs and the odd blister are a small price to pay for the funds we will hopefully raise for these vital charities.
“Both my charities do amazing work and rely heavily on volunteers and charitable donations.
“They encapsulate the spirit of Barnsley and I am humbled to be able to support and champion all they do by leading this walk.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who is joining me on the walk and every single person who donates to my fundraising page.
“Times are tough and I know everyone’s struggling with the cost of living, so every pound donated is beyond appreciated.
“We hope to see everyone get behind us and I look forward to seeing families out and about enjoying the trail during the walk – keep an eye out for us and give us a wave or a cheer.”
To donate, follow the link: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/mayorofbarnsleycharitywalk2023
