Nature lovers urged to join 'Big Wild Walk'
The money raised will go towards nature recovery projects such as beaver and water vole reintroductions and restoring wildflower meadows.
Wildlife lovers are invited to take part in the Big Wild Walk fundraiser next month, organised by the Wildlife Trusts.
Taking place from 24 to 30 October 2022, the Big Wild Walk encourages members of the public to get outside and enjoy nature, while raising money for the organisations' mission to protect at least 30 per cent of the UK's land and sea by 2030.
The Big Wild Walk initiative asks participants to use the number 30 as inspiration for a walking challenge, in honour of The Wildlife Trusts' mission to protect 30 per cent of the UK's wild places.
Nikki Williams, director of campaigning and communities at The Wildlife Trusts, encouraged nature lovers: “The impacts of climate change mean we need to take action to help nature more than ever before.
“By getting involved in the Big Wild Walk, you can support us to protect our rivers, meadows, forests, and seas – and the precious wildlife that depends on them.
“Make it a personal challenge, a family day out, an opportunity to spend time with friends, or simply to take a stand for nature!”
Suggestions for challenges participants can undertake include walking 30 minutes every day during the Big Wild Walk week, walking 30km in three days, walking 30km in one day or making up their own challenge to be sponsored for.
As the initiative takes place over the October half-term break, The Wildlife Trusts are encouraging children to take part with the Hedgehog Challenge, which challenges walkers to walk 3km – the distance a hedgehog can cover in one night.
Iolo Williams, vice-president of The Wildlife Trusts, said: “Autumn is a brilliant time to get outside, enjoy a little adventure and marvel at the wonder of our natural world. Best of all, by signing up to the Big Wild Walk you can help nature too.
“Public support is crucial for getting projects off the ground that protect, create, and restore precious wild places. I hope many of you can join us in October.”
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