The Orwell Challenge in aid of the Papworth Trust
The Orwell Challenge Papworth Trust Team
From left to right: David Burke, Jason Smith, Jo Revitt, Darrell Smith & Charlotte Bullard.
Since celebrating 35 years in business in April of this year (2019), Archway Carpets’ owner, Darrell Smith, wanted to further acknowledge this milestone by carrying out 35 acts of kindness for 5 charities over the coming year. Those charities are The Papworth Trust; Age UK Suffolk; Emmaus-Ipswich; Rubbish Walks & CALM.
Read more on the initiative by clicking here #35for35 or on the above image.
In the latest ‘Act of Kindness’ (although not on the legs) Darrell was joined by myself, Jason Smith (Marketing), to do the 12 miles as part of The Orwell Challenge. We have Jo Revitt of the Papworth Trust to thank for our aches and pains, as it was Jo who suggested we give it a go, in aid of the charity. For those who don’t know the Papworth Trust support disabled people with a range of high quality services to help them lead independent lives. Despite the achy joints, the late June weather was kind and everyone had a great time.
What follows is a photo diary fo the day. Darrell and I were joined by friends of Archway Carpets, David Burke and Charlotte Bullard.
Pipers Vale at 07.13am. HQ for the Orwell Challenge
The brave people of Suffolk gather to register for walking or running. Darrell & Jason chose the inappropriately ;o) named 12 mile walking route which was actually 14.2 miles.
Darrell and I dressed and ready for the challenge ahead.
The route had 5 checkpoints distributed at around 2-4 miles apart. Please click here to view the map.
A 1000 mile journey, or 14.2 miles, starts with one step.
We were joined by good friends David Burke and Charlotte Bullard, who set the pace for the entire walk - which was pretty fast!
Approaching the Orwell Bridge with blue skies above the Suffolk countryside.
The first checkpoint at Bridgewood (3 miles) and all is well.
An opportunity to receive a drink and a biscuit from the many Ipswich East Rotary Club volunteers along the route who were great.
Moving on with Felixstowe docks in the distance.
Checkpoint Two: Shaw Lane (5 miles).
By this time - due to very boggy ground by the river - our feet were somewhat soggy.
Checkpoint Three: Levington Loop which is approximately halfway.
Suffolk’s green and pleasant lanes.
Checkpoint Four: The delightful Decoy House. Two more checkpoints to go!
A selfie with Darrell powering down.
The penultimate stop at Fox’s Farm with 2 miles still to go. Still smiling!
The final checkpoint and finish line with around 120,000 steps between us.
We’d like to thank everyone involved with the Orwell Challenge who did an excellent job of organising and supporting along the walk.
Jo Revitt later confirmed, between us, we raised £575.00 in aid of Papworth Trust which is, in her words (and ours too), absolutely brilliant!
After the event we went our separate ways. For Darrell it was a hot tub in his back garden; for me it was back home for a quick bath and nap. Sure, there was stiffness, and I for one felt every minute of my 48 years. It was though, for a good cause while also being a lot of fun.
Same time, same place next year Darrell?