Medical men appeal for rugby day walkers

Medical men at Hospiscare are appealing for lads and dads to join them at the 2014 Men’s Walk taking place in Exeter on March 15.

The doctors, nurses and healthcare assistants came together to thank everyone who has already signed up to complete the 10k route and raise money for the thousands of patients with life-limiting illnesses the team cares for every year.

Hospiscare Consultant Tim Harlow said: “It is such a privilege for us to be able to care for local people at this important time in their lives. And the only reason this is possible is because of people, like those who sign up for the Men’s Walk, who day in day out, raise money for Hospiscare.”

The 10k Hospiscare Men’s Walk, sponsored by Wilkinson Grant & Co, is a great way to spend a lads’ day out alongside friends and family members, with the male bonding and banter continuing post-walk with a pint, pasty and three Six Nations rugby matches watched live on big screens at the home of the Exeter Chiefs.

The third annual Men’s Walk will once again commence from Sandy Park, taking in spectacular views of the City as it goes through Ludwell Valley Park before heading back to the finish line at the rugby ground.

Hospiscare Estates Manager Wayne Gale has taken part in every walk since the event began, but due to the company he will be keeping on the day, says he can’t admit to having undertaken any training for the event.

Wayne said: “I am taking part in the walk this year with my brothers and father. It might just be the lure of the pint and pasty that sees me to the finish line, but my dad is 82 and gets around fairly quickly so I’d be too embarrassed to admit to it being a challenge.”

The lads and dads day out has become renowned across Exeter, mid and east Devon as being one of the best men-only events, with a high level of rugby which is real draw for sports enthusiasts.

Wayne said: “Aside from the opportunity to raise funds for Hospiscare, it’s a great fun day with family and friends; the social element is enhanced with the pint and rugby afterwards which is a great way to finish the walk.

“We want to raise money but it’s also a great opportunity to get together with my dad and brothers, the latter come from as far as Harrogate to take part. We all enjoy walking, and the beer, pasty and rugby are a real bonus.”

The 2014 Men’s Walk, complete with walk, pint, pasty and rugby, begins at Sandy Park on Saturday March 15 at 8.45am.

There are four easy ways to register for the walk

· Register by phone on 01392 688062
· Register online at www.menswalk.co.uk.
· Sign up at your local Hospiscare shop
· Or sign up on the day from 8am at Sandy Park.