North or south, the Garden Re-Leaf Day Charity Walks (15th March) represent one of the most popular events in the Greenfingers fundraising calendar. With two stunning locations, three distances to tackle, and fun guaranteed, it’s no surprise that this year’s event is set to be the biggest yet.

The North

Joining the line-up in 2024, the North Walk sees walkers tackle a 12-mile circular route that takes in the untouched natural beauty of West Yorkshire, also known as ‘Last of the Summer’ country. Passing by moorlands, riverside paths, pretty villages, and reservoirs, this walk rewards walkers with its start and end point being at The Pickled Pheasant in Holmbridge.

This year, the North Walk will be supported by a dedicated team working behind the scenes to ensure walkers remain on the correct route and that assistance is provided when needed. Team members will include Jane Lawler and Will Armitage though extra hands are always welcome, so please do not hesitate to get in touch if you’d like to assist on the day.

The South

Returning to Tring Garden Centre and the surrounding Hertfordshire countryside, the Garden Re-Leaf South Walk, and accompanying Cycle Ride, will also take place this March.

Walkers can either enjoy a 10-mile ‘stroll’ or push themselves a little bit further to complete the 20-mile route within the day. Cyclists wanting to don their Lycra can also clock up the miles, with anywhere between 25- to 100-miles on the cards.

Whilst the northern walkers will be treated to a warm pub welcome upon completion of the walk, that doesn’t mean south walkers will be missing out. A raffle, live music and barbeque will all be on offer at the start/end point of Tring Garden Centre (part of British Garden Centres); activities that are bound to help walkers and cyclists to forget about their tired legs for a little bit!

Confirmed so far for the South Walk are Capi’s Kate Ebbens, Andrea Wells, Jamie Howard and Robbie Hutchinson from Vitavia Greenhouses, Jessice de Vries from Extreme Lounging, and Hornby George PR’s Kimberley Hornby.

British Garen Centre’s Ricky Towers, Alex Bullock, Joanne Arnott, Andy Matthews, Dan Aiken, Amy Hennesey and Phil Robinson will also be found at the start line, hoping to contribute to the £3k fundraising total earmarked by the team this Garden Re-Leaf Day.

Cyclists confirmed are Ian Clark from Taylor Bulbs, Colin Goodhand from Poplars Garden Centre and Steve Descombre from British Garden Centres.

Garden Re-Leaf Day 2024 will also see support from the team behind the newly-launched Gardengram Ball. Taking place the day after Garden Re-Leaf Day on March 16th, the Gardengram Ball will bring together the many garden Instagrammers as well as Team Greenfingers, to raise funds for the Greenfingers Charity.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at the Greenfingers Charity said: “Every year the Garden Re-Leaf Walk and Cycle Challenge gets bigger and bigger and, this year, we hope to make it our biggest yet! Open to all supporters of the Greenfingers charity we actively encourage teams to take on the challenge together. Or why not convince your friends and family to join in the fun? This is a day designed to test your mettle, get some fresh air in the lungs and network with others. Give it a try – you never know, you might just like it!”

Kimberley Hornby, Owner of Hornby George PR, who has tackled all but one Garden Re-Leaf Day walk, added: “Whether on your own, or walking with a group, I can guarantee that you will enjoy yourself. With nothing to do but to put one foot in front of the other, there is plenty of time to get to know your colleagues, industry connections and new friends along the way. On every single walk I have laughed, created memories and made new friends. It’s a super day and the best bit is that we’re raising money for Greenfingers. As days go, this is definitely one that gives you all the warm and fuzzy feelings.”

Don’t miss out – register today!

Getting involved in the Garden Re-Leaf Sponsored Walk and Cycle Challenge couldn’t be easier. Simply visit https://www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk/get-involved/garden-re-leaf-day-is-coming-soon where all the information and registration links are clearly marked.

Don’t forget to also create your JustGiving page so that you can ask friends, family and colleagues for sponsorship. Linda Petrons explains: “We recognise that, as an event that sees so many from the garden retail sector take part, the fear is always that we’ll be asking all the same people for sponsorship. We say, ‘don’t let this put you off!’ The more people you ask – even if the same – the more it helps to spread the word of Greenfingers, so go shout it from the rooftops!”

Top tips for making the most of the Garden Re-Leaf Day Sponsored Walk & Cycle Challenge

• Appropriate shoes – both routes go off-road so be prepared for mud and stiles! A well-worn pair of walking boots or trainers will stand you in good stead.
• Remember plasters and a spare pair of socks should you get soggy feet!
• Not wanting to trust the Great British weather, we suggest wearing plenty of layers to ensure that you’re prepared for every season in one day if needed.
• Stops offering light snacks and water will be dotted throughout the route but it’s also a good idea to bring a few snacks or a light lunch to keep you sustained throughout the walk.
• Have fun! Make friends! Build your contacts! Whether you are walking on your own or as part of a team, you are guaranteed to have a superb day away from the desk.
• Raise money – don’t forget that the Garden Re-Leaf Sponsored Walk and Cycle Challenge has been put in place to raise much-needed funds for the Greenfingers Charity. No matter if you raise £250 or £1,000, just know that it is hugely appreciated and will make a difference to the children, friends and families that spend time in a Greenfingers garden.

For more FUNdraising ideas or to obtain a copy of the 2024 fundraising pack drop Linda a line – she’d love to hear from you.