Charity

We have done it! Thank you to everyone out there who was involved and thank you to the Gurkhas, their smile and kindness is irresistible. Graduate Landscapes took on its ultimate challenge The Trailwalker, 100 k walk from Petersfield to Brighton. It does not sound much if you say it quickly but it is the equivalent of two marathons and climbing Ben Nevis twice.

It is no exaggeration to say Trailwalker is a life changing experience. From the initial Friday registration, the food, entertainment and general camaraderie to an inspirational talk from the head of Oxfam as to the good things they are trying to do in some very dangerous parts of the world. A cast of over a thousand from all points of the UK and Europe set off over three staggered start times, ours being at 8am. Our French students found the going tough, and our first casualty dropped out after the first 10k. We still ploughed on enjoying the remarkable views across the downs to the Isle of White, Chichester Harbour and the copper spire of south Harting Church. The heat and flints were taking their toile and in the middle of the night at 50-60- and 70k, we lost significant numbers. Undaunted Adam and Steve stuck to the task and crossed the line in 29hours 39 minutes in a slightly delirious drunken state.

Well done guys!

surrey garden designers oxfam charity hike