On 17 August 2009 a group of 8 walkers will set out on a challenge walk from Harby, near Lincoln, along the route of the Queen Eleanor Crosses bound for Westminster where they will arrive a fortnight later on 31 August.

Queen Eleanor of (wife of King Edward I of England) died in Harby in November 1290. Her body was taken to Westminster Abbey for a royal burial by a mighty funeral cortege, and Edward I later commissioned a dozen magnificent crosses along this route to honour Eleanor in death. Three of these crosses – the Eleanor Crosses – still stand; in Geddington and Hardingstone, Northamptonshire, and in Waltham. London’s Charing Cross is a 19^th century replica.

Please give generously to this worthy cause for the dedicated walkers. Monies raised will go towards the Connection at St Martins and the Renewal of St Martin in the Fields.

The Connection at St Martin’s helps homeless by providing specialist services - including a day and night centre, outreach for rough sleepers, skills training and career advice, activity programmes and specialist support for complex needs – to 200 people in central London every day.  We offer advice, care and support in a welcoming and friendly environment. By encouraging each person to address the issues which caused their homelessness, we help them to gain the skills and confidence to make lasting changes in their lives.

The Renewal of St Martin-in-the-Fields has created modern facilities to replace what was once a series of Victorian burial vaults, which have inadequately housed many of St Martin's services for decades. The aim of the Renewal Project is to enable St Martin's to better serve those in greatest need and to enrich people's lives through worship, social care and internationally renowned musical performances in spaces fit for the purpose. Over £35m has now been raised towards the £36m total thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund and many other generous donors. Please help us to finish the job!