Richard and Bridie Ashrowan founded Open Road in 1990, from their home outside Colchester and what an amazing track record it has in the capable hands of the many who've developed the work since.

‘In November Open Road celebrated their 30th birthday! So that’s why we’ve set ourselves this challenge of walking 30 miles to Kagyu Samye Ling, a Tibetan Buddhist Monastery and Centre for World Peace & Health, and back, near our home in Scotland. This place was very special to Diana Tinson, a great supporter for Open Road in its earliest years, and her ashes now lie there. Her charitable trust gave money to buy our first computer and access to a room for free for one hour a week, in the Trinity Centre, Colchester. From that humble start, Open Road has grown into a leading charity providing support for people affected by drug & alcohol use, in East Anglia and beyond.

We’re walking in honour of Diana and all the wonderful work of Open Road. We’ll post updates on social media on the walk to help share this beautiful place that inspires peace and reflection. Please support us in this personal challenge. Every penny counts.’

Our mission is to empower a diverse range of individuals, families and communities to lead healthy and more meaningful lives, free from addiction, offending behaviour and disadvantage, to ensure healthier, happier lifestyles. We seek to strike a balance between acceptance and change; to accept people as they are, whilst helping them to make positive changes as they so desire.