More than 60 family members, friends and colleagues of Anna Wharton, from Appleby, who died last year following a short battle with cancer, gathered at Pooley Bridge to take on what proved to be a red hot fundraising challenge.
Many supporters and well-wishers also gathered to wave off the intrepid team as they set off to walk the Ullswater Way, covering around 20 miles and involving more than 3,000ft of ascent, on what proved to be one of the warmest days of the year so far.
However, their sweaty efforts on the Walk for Anna proved well worthwhile, bringing to more than £11,000 – the total so far raised through a JustGiving page and sponsorship for the walk — an impressive amount given the original target was a more modest £2,000.
The money is going to the Alan Moore Memorial Fund (AMMF), a charity set up in memory of Alan Moore, who, like Anna, lost his life to cholangiocarcinoma, a rare bile duct cancer.
One of the walk organisers, Mike Addison, Anna’s former boss and friend, said: “Some of the walkers had been getting their steps in before the day and others were naturally fit, while many just took the day in their stride and hoped for the best!”
Mike recalled that a casual chat several months ago among Anna’s friends, colleagues and family resulted in the decision to raise much-needed funds for the AMMF and increase awareness of cholangiocarcinoma.
The response was testament to the fact Anna was held in high regard and loved by many.
Mike said: “Anyone that was met along the way wished the walkers well and when they asked about the cause and motivation Anna’s name would be discussed with love and affection, often leading to a donation from the strangers.
“The challenging walk seemed to push many of the group to their limits, but they knew that what they were doing was possibly changing someone else’s life — so grit and determination were the order of the day. As the group worked their way along the path the heat and terrain intensified. People pulled together to help each other along and new friendships were forged through blood, sweat and possibly tears.
“Upon completion of the challenge walking boots and shoes were removed, feet exploded and feelings of elation were felt by all once they had returned to Pooley Bridge. The groups reassembled in a sea of purple T-shirts bearing the AMMF logo, shared stories of adventure and celebrated a fantastic mission accomplished by all — ably assisted by a fantastic back-up crew of Sara and Keith, from Lakeland Commercial.”
Tributes to Anna Wharton – exceptional, strong and determined
