NEWS
Read the latest updates and view archived articles from Walking With The Wounded's 'Walking Home Home For Christmas' December campaign.
Cadet Force Adult Volunteer returns to Walking Home for a third year
By Media Team on
With walks starting to be planned throughout the UK, we’ve been speaking to some of our Walking Home participants to hear more about their story, and why they have chosen to take part. One supporter returning to Walking Home for his 3rd year is Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, Lewis Wilde.
You’ve taken part in Walking Home several times, what is it about the campaign that keeps bringing you back?
For me, it’s the personal touch. The charity spends a lot of time reaching out and offering support to its fundraisers. There is a steady stream of communication which as a fundraiser, I really appreciate. Last year we were told what the money we had raised was earmarked for, which inspired us even further to put in the extra effort to reach our goal.
If someone was considering signing up to Walking Home but wasn’t sure where to start with their fundraising, what advice would you give to them?
It’s a hard question to answer, but personally I enjoy using Instagram and Facebook to tell the story of my journey, from signing up all the way to the completion of my event. It allows my friends to see my passion for the charity and why I’m taking part. I also start with a small goal, something that I would be happy to reach and that is achievable. You don’t need to set yourself a goal that will cause you stress, as then you won’t enjoy taking part.
What kind of walk are you planning on doing this year – solo or with a group?
After 2020 I have always done team walks, and this year I am back out with a team once again. I have a close friend in Matt Marquis, and we often work together for Walking With The Wounded, bringing other cadet force adults on board too. We’re already discussing ideas for a cadet led event next year where the cadets take the lead in fundraising and set the goal, but we help them to achieve it.
Can you describe your experience with the Walking Home campaign over the last few years in three words?
Tough but inspirational.
Whether you’ve taken part in Walking Home before, or are considering signing up for the first time, the campaign is open to everyone, and we would love to have you on board! There’s no set fundraising target, no minimum distance, and it’s free to register, so sign up and walk home in support of those who served.
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Halewood Battalion Cadets take on 60km Lake District challenge for veterans
By Media Team on
Cadets from the Halewood Battalion laced up their boots and headed for the Lake District as they completed a demanding 60km walk in support of Walking Home For Christmas.
Now in their third consecutive year of taking part, the group of eight cadets travelled to the fells with a clear goal: to push themselves beyond their comfort zones whilst raising vital funds for veterans and their families during the winter months.
The challenge was not without its obstacles. Battling poor weather conditions on the summit of the Old Man of Coniston on the first day, the cadets showed determination and teamwork as they pressed on.
One of the group, Thomas Harper, reflected on why the challenge means so much to them: “Many of us have family members who...
RAF veteran completes 48km pulk pull in support of fellow veterans
By Media Team on
RAF veteran Derek Heron has completed an impressive 48km walk in support of Walking Home For Christmas, taking on the challenge to raise funds and awareness for fellow veterans.
Having served for 22 years in the RAF, Derek joined the Walking With The Wounded team on 18 December for our Long Way Home challenge, where he pulled our historic pulk. The demanding challenge tested both physical endurance and mental resilience – but Derek was more than ready to rise to it.
Derek was inspired to get involved after taking part in WWTW’s Cumbrian Challenge earlier this summer. Motivated by our mission and the stories of veterans we support, he was keen to step up once again and give back.
Reflecting on the challenge, Derek said: “After a 22-year...
Oldest tank regiment in the world marches 108km in 24 hours for veterans
By Media Team on
Members of the Royal Tank Regiment (RTR) proved that grit, determination and teamwork are as strong as ever as they completed a gruelling 24-hour walk in support of our Walking Home For Christmas campaign.
Setting off on 9 December from their Regimental Headquarters in Tidworth, the soldiers pushed themselves to the limit, covering an incredibly 108km on foot. Their destination was Bovington – the regiment’s home and proudly known as its “spiritual home” – but the journey was anything but easy.
Battling relentless rain, strong winds and physical exhaustion, the team refused to let the harsh conditions slow them down. Morale stayed high throughout the night as they dug deep, supported one another and kept their purpose firmly in sight:...