MORE than 100 walkers took part in the Exeter Chiefs Foundation charity walk to raise money for city homeless charity St Petrocks.

The walk, sponsored by Exeter College and Willmott Dixon, started at Wonford Leisure Centre and finished at Sandy Park in time for the Exeter Chiefs men’s first Premiership match of the season against Gloucester.

The 12km route, which took in much of the city’s Green Circle network of footpaths, was chosen to recognise the 12 miles that the average homeless person walks every day.

Exeter City Council supported the event with a welcome by Exeter City Councillors Ruth Williams and Duncan Wood.

Cllr Williams, the Council’s Deputy Leader, took part in the long walk and said it was a great experience.

She said: “I was full of trepidation about walking 12km ‘on my own’, albeit with a large group of strangers. The most I walk on most days is about 2km – I needn’t have worried!”

“There were others on their own, as well as friends and family groups. I walked at my own pace, and there were stewards accompanying us to make sure we didn't get lost.

“The high points were seeing parts of Exeter and our Valley Parks that I hadn't been to before and getting some fresh air and exercise while chatting to people about their reasons for joining the walk.”

Cllr Williams added: “I joined a number of fellow walkers enjoying a welcome halfway comfort break at the Double Locks and a well-earned drink and sit-down.

“I have to admit that I was rather relieved to see the splendour of the Chiefs Stadium 3.5 hours after I’d started! I had only two regrets – that I didn’t have a change of T-shirt with me (it was a hot day!) and that the Chiefs didn’t win, despite scoring some remarkable tries.”

Becky Skinner, Exeter Chiefs Foundation administrator, said: “It was a bright, sunny morning for a lovely walk through the Exeter Green Circle, and it was great to see almost 25 per cent more people at this year’s event than at last year’s.

“Not only is this a great fundraising event, but it also gave people a chance to get moving in the fresh air. Thank you to everyone who helped organise, volunteer, attend or donate to this year's walk.”

Cllr Wood, Lead Councillor for Leisure Services and Healthy Living, added: “Partnership working is one of the things that Exeter does well, and seeing so many organisations and individuals come together to contribute to this valuable local charity, whilst also having lots of fun and being active, is heartwarming.

“The fact that they’ve all raised considerable funds for Exeter’s homeless community is going to make such a difference to those who really need the support from St Petrocks this winter.”

To make a donation visit Donate - St Petrock's