Fundraising with a walk on the wild side

Volunteers Matthew Bishop and Kevin Huscroft raised £337 for New Hope by walking the idyllic and wildly enchanting Icknield Way from Knettishall Heath in Suffolk to Ivinghoe Beacon in the Chiltern Hills near Aldbury.

 The Icknield Way dates back to Neolithic times - around 5,000 years ago - when it served as an early trading route along the dry chalk ridge.

 They actually began the 110-mile marathon hike in June but were forced to delay the second half of their adventure because of the heat in our record-breaking summer.

 Matt (pictured) said: “It was just a shame that it got too hot for us to continue. We did manage the first three days, but the heat was becoming a bit much, even before the heatwave hit properly. We thought it was a sensible decision not to go any further.

 “It was thankfully much better weather-wise when we resumed the walk. It was nowhere near as hot as it was back in June. However, we still had the very welcome and pleasantly warm sunshine.

 “It was still quite hard work though, as we covered the final 65 miles in the 3 days, and ended up with rather sore feet and legs, but it was definitely worth it!”

 As well as the money raised for New Hope, the trek raised a similar amount for Watford Food Bank. Well done guys! Your efforts are very much appreciated.