An amazing ‘army’ of more than 7,800 walkers turned out for this year’s Walk the Wight, and their efforts have already realised over £340,000 for the Mountbatten charity.
Participation in Mountbatten’s flagship fundraiser returned to pre-Covid levels, with nearly double the number of walkers compared to last year’s event.
“It was simply amazing, an absolute joy to be part of and to see so many people come together for Mountbatten,” said CEO Nigel Hartley, who walked all 26.5 miles from Bembridge to The Needles.
“Walk the Wight was very much back to its best and we are so grateful to everyone involved in the day.
“In these challenging times, the money raised so far is simply incredible and will help us so much in supporting people who need our care on the Island.
“It is a huge task to organise the walk and I would like to personally thank our staff, volunteers and all our community supporters and sponsors who helped to make it happen.
“Thank you to you all for a truly memorable day.”
Walkers had the choice of four different routes – the full 26.5 miles, either the first or second half or the eight-mile Flat Walk.
The Schools Walk the Wight from Freshwater Bay to The Needles also welcomed more than 1,000 walkers and has so far raised around £30,000 towards the overall total.
More sponsorship money is still to be collected and the final total raised will be announced later in the year.
Meanwhile, next year’s event has already been scheduled to take place on Sunday 12 May 2024.