THE NEW chairman of the district council will be stepping out on to the Malvern Hills this weekend to raise funds for St Richard’s Hospice.
Recently appointed Coun Chris O’Donnell, who had taken over the reins from Coun John Raine after being elected at Tuesday night’s annual district council meeting, will celebrate 20 years of taking part in the hospice’s May Day Malvern Walk tomorrow (Saturday).
Coun O’Donnell announced St Richard’s Hospice is one of her chosen charities for her year in office and her fund-raising activities include a charity ball and auction.
“I first started supporting St Richard’s while teaching at New College Worcester in 1997,” she said.
“Initially I guided students around the 11-mile route before guiding younger children on the shorter five-mile one.
“Since retiring in 2008, I have continued to take part in the fund-raiser and look forward to a celebratory one this year.”
The annual event, which saw 600 people don their walking boots last year, is suitable for all ages and abilities.
Walkers can choose between two, five and 11-mile routes.
The two and five mile routes, more suitable for families, start at 10am from Black Hills car park while the 11-mile route commences at 8am from North Quarry car park with walkers walking the length of the Malvern Hills from Chase End.
Once the walk is completed, coaches will be on hand from North Quarry car park to Chase End.
Jayne Sargeant, community fund-raiser at St Richard’s Hospice, said: “We are delighted to welcome Councillor O’Donnell and her family on her 20th walk for the hospice.
“Her support has been – and continues to be – invaluable to us.
“The event, as Chris knows, is a fabulous family event and we would encourage as many people as possible to join us to celebrate our countryside alongside raising vital funds to support our work.”
Last year the event raised a staggering £23,000.
It is one of the hospice’s most popular events and has been running since the charity was launched in 1984.
All those taking part pledge to raise a minimum of £50.
There are entrance fees of £10 for adults and £5 for under-16s.
For further information call 01905 763 963 or email [email protected].
