Guildford Street Angel and Community Angel projects, run by local charity Guildford Town Centre Chaplaincy, held their first fundraising event since lockdown – a sponsored walk along the North Downs Way from Guildford to Farnham, with the help of Guildford Walkfest, and a team of Angelic sponsors.
Some 30 walkers including Charity Patron’s The Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux and Lady Lizzie Toulson, joined staff, volunteers, Trustee’s and supporters on what turned into a glorious day in the late summer sun. Thanks to widespread support, fundraising has already topped a stunning £4500 – much needed funds towards the work of the Chaplaincy in the community.
Trustee Louise Kenyon, who Chairs Guildford Town Centre Chaplaincy’s Fund-raising Committee said “We are very grateful to the Surrey Hills Society who organised the walk as part of their annual Walkfest walking festival, the second time that we have enjoyed being their Charity of the Year. It’s been a challenging year for everyone but it’s great to be able to hold events like this again, for both the social aspects as well as the necessary fundraising. We are absolutely thrilled that the work of our volunteers has been recognised by such generous support – our Community Angel befriending project saw demand grow for our services by 300% in the first months of the lockdown and resources have been stretched to the limit, so the funds raised are hugely appreciated”
Christine Howard, Chairman of Guildford Walkfest said she was “delighted to have the Guildford Town Centre Chaplaincy as this year’s chosen charity. Over 30 people took part in the 12 mile walk along the North Downs Way National Trail. The trail runs from Farnham all the way to Canterbury, through the Surrey Hills and Kent Downs Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.”
The Guildford Town Centre Chaplaincy works collaboratively with a number of organisations who share a commitment to enhance the well-being of those who work, reside or visit the town.
