Local hospices introduce new eco-friendly medals for annual event

Naomi House & Jacksplace, local hospices for children and young adults, have announced the details of their 19th annual Clarendon Way Walk, set to take place on June 8th.

This year, participants will receive a special eco-friendly medal, marking a significant step in the charity's ongoing efforts to make their events more sustainable.

The hospices have been actively working to reduce their carbon footprint and make their events more environmentally friendly. Some of the initiatives include using previous years' stock of t-shirts instead of ordering new ones, switching to refillable water stations instead of single-use water bottles, and implementing collection dates for t-shirts to avoid postal deliveries.

In collaboration with Earth Runs, Naomi House & Jacksplace will provide sustainable medals that are fully biodegradable and plastic-free in this year's event.

Each medal contains a wildflower seed, allowing participants to plant it after the walk. Additionally, for every medal sold, a tree will be planted. These medals are handmade by a social enterprise set up by Earth Runs that offers employment opportunities to individuals facing challenging circumstances.

By participating in the Clarendon Way Walk, you will be supporting Naomi House & Jacksplace in their mission to be there for local children, young adults, and their families during good days, difficult days, and last days.

Participants can choose from three distances: 26 miles, 12 miles, or 5 miles, all of which follow the historic Clarendon Way route from Winchester Cathedral to Salisbury Cathedral. The route is well-signposted, with pit stops providing refreshments, toilet facilities, and enthusiastic volunteers from the charity cheering you on throughout the journey.

Charlotte Patrick, Events Team Leader at Naomi House & Jacksplace, said: “We are so excited to be back with our Clarendon Way Walk. It is such a great day, and we are always blown away by the dedication from our supporters to push themselves with their walk and fundraising. This year we are excited to introduce the seed medals as an additional effort to make our events more sustainable.

"This is our biggest event of the year, and the money raised from the walk helps us to provide outstanding nursing care for seriously ill children and young adults. Don’t miss out on your chance to make every step count and sign up today!”

Tash from Earth Runs said: “Our medals are handmade, providing employment for people with hidden challenges. They are biodegradable, plastic free and can be planted to grow wildflowers when you've finished showing it off, so the bees love them too!

"We also plant a tree for every recipient and provide an impact report so you can see the difference you have made. Everyone and everything wins when you do.”

The event is suitable for all abilities and ages, from 5 years old. Register at https://www.naomihouse.org.uk/CWW25.