Loughborough College Staff Brave Harsh Conditions for Charity Night Walk: Preparing for 106km Isle of Wight Challenge to Raise Funds for PACE

Six Loughborough College staff members set out on a 40km night training walk last weekend to prepare for a 106km walk they will undertake at the end of April on the Isle of Wight. The group will use the event as a fundraiser for PACE, a charity dedicated to providing support for the physical, mental, emotional and social needs of society.

Colleagues Bernadette Barker, Jesse Jackson, Rachael Owen, Corinne Gardner, Tim Turner and Emma Griffin embarked on the challenging training walk that took them from the college to Wilson and back. It tested their endurance and is helping to ensure they will be physically and mentally prepared for the demanding IOW challenge. The night walk tested their stamina and ability to navigate in the dark. The temperatures often dropped below zero, and it was foggy, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the already challenging conditions.

"We wanted to push ourselves and test our limits," said Jesse Jackson. "The 100km walk will be a huge challenge, but we are determined to complete it and raise as much money as possible for PACE."

The 100km walk, which will take place on the Isle of Wight, will be a test of endurance, as the participants will have to navigate through various terrains, including hills and rugged coastlines. Setting off at 7am, the group will be walking through the night in an effort to complete the challenge in under 48 hours.

"We are all excited to take on this challenge and raise money for such a worthy cause," said Service Industries Head Bernadette Barker. "PACE does amazing work, and we are honoured to be able to support them in this way."

"We want to raise as much awareness and money as possible for PACE," said Jesse. "We encourage anyone interested in joining us for the IOW challenge, training walks, or supporting the charity to get in touch."

The group is looking forward to the 106km walk and is determined to complete it and raise as much money as possible for PACE.

If you are interested in supporting Team 1909 or want more information, please get in touch with jesse.jackson@loucoll.ac.uk