We're a group of walkers, ranging up to the age of 84, who are passionate about supporting and improving people's mental health. Some of us are counsellors, some have struggled with their own mental health, and others are family members or friends who are well aware of the difference that counselling can make.

We're undertaking The Great Riverside Ramble - Goring Gap Walk 2024, taking place on the 18th May, which runs through the Chiltern Hills and along the banks of the River Thames. But this isn't just any old ramble. In fact, our walkers are either taking on a half marathon or a full marathon, which is challenging by anyone's standards, never mind for the octogenarians in the group!

We're undertaking this walk during Mental Health Awareness week to raise much needed funds for Basingstoke Counselling Service, which was founded in 1985 by a small group of counsellors responding to the mental health needs of the local community and we have supported thousands of people since then. Our clients use counselling to help them through periods of distress or difficulty, including, but not limited to:

• feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, confused or under stress

• feeling lonely or isolated

• experiencing a personal crisis, such as redundancy, marriage break-up or bereavement

• historical traumatic experiences

• suicidal thoughts

With the NHS at its limits, we provide an important service to those who may not otherwise be able to access counselling.

The cost-of-living crisis means that demand for counselling is high. Still, we are increasingly offering appointments at a heavily reduced rate, which is having a significant impact on our income.

By sponsoring us, you'll be supporting those people who are struggling most with their mental health, but aren't in a position to afford counselling elsewhere. Please help us to continue this vital work.