Fundraisers walking from coast to coast for local charity

Local fundraisers are planning to walk across England to raise vital funds for Tameside, Oldham and Glossop Mind. 

The Coast to Coast walk is one of the most iconic long-distance walks in England, with many experts recommending at least 15 days to complete the entire journey.

Peter Keenan, Jamie Hallows and two other fundraisers will be setting off today (Friday) and plan to complete the full walk in just 10 days, whilst raising funds throughout for the national mental health charity Mind and the local Tameside, Oldham and Glossop Mind. 

Individual branches of Mind - of which there are over 100 in England and Wales - are responsible for their own fundraising, and TOG Mind say it always needs and appreciates local help from kind-hearted people. 

The fundraisers have already had support from several local bars and pubs in Mossley - including The Commercial, The Butchers Arms, The Britannia Inn and The Gillery - but say they would very much welcome and appreciate additional help, with funds helping to support the most vulnerable people locally during this difficult time amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

Peter said: "The team are all taking part for different personal reasons but collectively we recognise and understand that many people are struggling with their mental health now and we wanted to do something to help. If people can donate even a little, it’ll mean more support can be provided locally." 

Jason, who has worked with TOG Mind for almost four years, said; "It’s fantastic that the guys are raising funds and encouraging the conversation about mental wellbeing. We’ve seen a 400 per cent increase in referrals during the last four months (our Buddy Project) so any support from the local community helps and is always hugely appreciated". 

Anyone who would like to find out more about the walk and support it can get in touch with Jason at TOG Mind on the number below to make a direct donation, pop into one of the named businesses supporting or visit the Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/coasttocoast-2020.

For more information on accessing support or training with TOG Mind, or getting involved with fundraising, you can call their office on 0161 330 9223, visit https://www.togmind.org/home or head to www.facebook.com/TamesideOldhamGlossopMind.

Main image:

Jamie Hallows (left) and Peter Keenan.