Organisers announce new addition to popular event

Organisers of a popular charity walking event in September have announced a new accessible route.

Stroud-based charity Meningitis Now, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, said a 5km (3 mile) alternative route will be available to participants of the Five Valleys Walk who use wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and prams.

The new route will be separate from the main 21-mile (34km) trail and take participants along the canal path.

"We're delighted to introduce a new 5K accessible route, making the Five Valleys Walk more inclusive, creating an opportunity for families, friends and supporters of all abilities to enjoy the day together," said Claire Ellis, senior fundraising officer.

Meningitis Now was founded in 1986 by Sue Neale and Dr Jane Wells, whose sons had the infection during an outbreak in Stroud.

The following year, Wells contacted Aleck Miskin, a keen walker and one of the first fundraisers for the charity, asking him to create an outdoor fundraising event.

After hiking the highways and byways of the Stroud Valleys, Miskin put together a route and The Five Valleys Walk was born.

Wells said: "Those were hectic early days, very different from today. We had lost children, lost dogs, and groups of young kids walking together.

"I remember the wasp nest in Randwick woods which was swarming. We created a diversion but I'm sure a few people got stung."

The charity said the 21-mile route is a "challenging option" but participants can choose a distance that suits them, ranging from 1.5 miles (2.4km) up to the full course.

"Once you've completed your walk, you can catch a bus back to any point along the route, thanks to our wonderful partners at Stagecoach," the charity said.

This year's Five Valleys Walk will take place on 27 September.

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