The Garden Re-Leaf Sponsored Walk has long been an integral part of the annual fundraising calendar that supports of the Greenfingers charity. Ahead of the 2023 event, a new ‘North Walk’ joins the line-up in the hope to encourage even more intrepid walkers to take up the challenge.

Organised by long-term Greenfingers supporter, Jane Lawler, the new ‘North Walk’ will make it even easier for those manufacturers and retailers based in the north of the country to join the annual Garden Re-Leaf activity without having to travel as far or spend money on overnight accommodation to ensure they are at the start line on time.

Taking place for the first time on Garden Re-Leaf Day 2023 – Friday March 24th – the new North Walk will add a healthy dose of competition to the sponsored walk, with northern walkers enjoying a pub start and end point! Starting at The Pickled Pheasant in Holmbridge, the 12-mile circular route will take in moorland, riverside paths, pretty villages and reservoirs, extending into the Peak District National Park, skirting the Pennine Way. Along the route, walkers will be able to see Last of the Summer Wine country, including Nora Batty’s infamous steps and Compo’s Fish & Chip shop.

Adding an extra challenge to proceedings, a treasure hunt will also be introduced. This will consist of quirky questions, the answers to which can only be found along the route. A prize will be made available to the winning team (maximum of four people per team) with a prize sponsor currently being sought. 

The North Walk will be supported by route app guidance, with a lead and ‘last’ walker to ensure all participants find their way around the route. Mulch’s Will Armitage, Primeur’s Jenny Douthwaite, Cowell Garden Centre’s Martin Cowell and Will Blake from St Peter’s Garden Centre in Worcester, have all offered to support on the day. 

South Walk & Cycle Ride continues

For those not in the North, the annual south based Greenfingers Sponsored Walk and Cycle Ride will continue in 2023. This year all southernly routes (10 and 20 miles) will start and end at Tring Garden Centre, part of British Garden Centres.

Get involved

Participation in the Garden Re-Leaf Walks will be on a first come, first served basis. To register your interest please contact Linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

Any brands interested in sponsoring the walks and cycle ride, including pre- and post-walk refreshments, are invited to also get in touch.

Find out more

To find out more about how you can get involved in Garden Re-Leaf Day 2023, including fundraising inspiration, please visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk/get-involved/gardenreleaf

You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media -https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/, @GreenfingersCha on Twitter, and @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn.