The sound of cheers and the traditional call of the Billericay Town Crier echoed through Canon Roche Hall last week, marking a momentous Celebration Evening for The Fun Walk Trust. The organisers unveiled a monumental achievement: this year's event had raised an unprecedented £121,000 for local causes, the highest total in the fundraiser's 23-year history.
A Night of Celebration and Recognition
The hall was filled with representatives from approximately 60 local charities and community groups, alongside Bonus Pot sponsors, trustees, and supporters. The evening's climax arrived when Professor Michael Almond, the Deputy Lieutenant of Essex, joined John Baron, Chairman of The Fun Walk Trust, on stage to reveal the staggering final figure. The total included a generous 35 per cent bonus applied to the funds raised by every participating group.
Following the grand announcement, John and Michael presented each charity and community group with a fundraising certificate, formally recognising their incredible efforts. The event celebrated the collective energy of thousands of participants from across the county, including schools, local sports clubs, and church groups, all uniting to make a lasting difference.
Where the Funds are Making a Difference
The record-breaking sum of £121,000 will provide vital support to a wide range of local initiatives. The funds are directly helping children and families, sports clubs, schools, food banks, animal charities, churches, and numerous other community projects throughout Essex.
Professor Michael Almond praised the monumental effort, congratulating all involved for their 'outstanding commitment to making Essex a better place for everyone'.
Gratitude and Looking to the Future
John Baron expressed his profound thanks, stating: "Each year we are amazed by the generosity, energy and teamwork of all who take part. To reveal such a fantastic total at this Celebration Evening, surrounded by so many of our charities and supporters, is a truly special moment." He extended gratitude to every walker, organiser, and sponsor, emphasising that the success was a direct result of their collective effort.
A significant boost to the final total came from the Bonus Pot sponsors, whose contributions enhanced the funds raised by participants by 35 per cent. Key supporters included:
- Greater Anglia
- Brown & Carroll (London)
- Sanctuary Housing Association
- Equi Ltd
- One Footstep (The Human Kind Café, Billericay)
- Butyl Products Group
- Tunnelcraft
- c2c Rail
- Mr Barrie Stone
With the celebrations for this year's record haul still ongoing, organisers are already channeling their enthusiasm into planning for next year's event. The goal is to build on this success, bringing together even more participants to raise an even larger total for local good causes.
