I have signed up as an individual to walk part of the Great Wall of China (through Charity Challenge) as I have wanted to contribute to Perennial’s fantastic charity work for years and decided 2020 was the right time. This trek will be very challenging but also rewarding; what better way to see one of the seven wonders of the world! 

By committing to this fundraising challenge I will be raising money to help horticulturists in need, and also raise awareness and support for Perennial. I am a professional gardener and know what a lifeline Perennial is; in this profession you are dependent upon good physical health and any injury or illness can have a devastating effect on your career.
By sponsoring me you are supporting Perennial and contributing to the ongoing support needed for them to continue helping horticulturists in need. All funds raised will go directly to Perennial; any donation, large or small, is gratefully received.

About Perennial

Perennial is the UK’s only charity dedicated to helping people who work in horticulture when times get tough. They provide free and confidential advice, support and financial assistance to people of all ages working in, or retired from horticulture (including gardeners, designers, groundsmen, tree surgeons, foresters, etc) as well as their families. 

About the Challenge

The Great Wall of China stretches across more than 4,000 miles of the country, and, contrary to its name, is more than one wall. It exists in parts, with tame sections giving way to wild ones which then vanish into gaps made by roads and reservoirs. The sections seen around Beijing have ancient precedents, some of which run directly beneath the Wall. 

The Charity Challenge trek is a week long, beginning four hours north of Beijing. It is a thrilling experience of twists, turns, ups and downs, tackling a series of vigorous climbs totalling over 10,000 uneven steps. The trek will follow the winding path along the Yan Mountains to the Gubeikou Gateway and takes on the famous ‘heavenly staircase’. 

I will be trekking for around 4-7 hours per day, covering approximately 50 kilometres, come rain or shine. Thousands of steps will be encountered, often at great heights, including tricky sections on un-renovated sections of the Wall. By the end of this challenge I hope to be as nimble as a mountain goat! 

Training
Please keep visiting my JustGiving page as I will be sharing training updates in preparation for this challenge - watch this space!