I wanted to create awareness of the outstanding work Step by Step offers our community, and raise funds for the accommodation and wrap-around support so desperately needed by our young people. Choosing a local walk that could be repeated 272 times became easy when realising famous author Elizabeth Gaskell lived in Holybourne and famous author,
Jane Austen, lived in Chawton. So why not walk from one to the other taking in "The Jane Austen Trail" along the way? While the distance between the two is not very far, by the time the challenge is completed it adds up to 816 miles - that’s assuming I get a lift back!”

"Such a worthwhile cause - one I'm sure Mrs Gaskell would have supported wholeheartedly" 

Libby Tempest, Chair of the Elizabeth Gaskell Society

“We offer a loud message of support and encouragement to
Gordon in his walk between Elizabeth Gaskell’s House in Holybourne and Chawton Cottage. This is important work to support those in great need in our community.”

Lizzie Dunford, Director - Jane Austen’s House