The Softcat South Coast Office in partnership with the Armed Forces & Veterans Network will be undertaking a charity trek across the South Downs Way (100 Miles) within 48 hours to raise money for the Gurkha Welfare Trust.

Who?

Dominic Powell , Marcus Dancer, Adam Englehart, Elliott Gray, Becky Moore, Rob Coleman, Dani West, Frank Barnard, Chandler Long and Shannon West will be walking the full duration of the 100 Miles along the south Downs Way. This can only be achieved with the support of our amazing crew including Katie Wilson, Grace Lovett, Trevor Collier, Henning Speckels, Santos Muro, Sam Ward, Nathan Adlard and Sarah Carpenter.

What is the Challenge?

The South Downs Way is a 100-mile national trail of rolling, chalk hills that stretch across Hampshire and Sussex. On the trail, you’ll spend a lot of time following ridges over the crest of the Downs, with sweeping views across valleys and low farmland. This really is quintessential English countryside.

Over 4,000M of elevation will be encountered and only breaks for food and refuelling for the next leg will be had. This is a non stop walking challenge. The Gurkha Welfare Trust usually do 'Trail walker' over the weekend of Softcat PLC's kick off. Trailwalker is 100KM however we have decided to do the complete South Downs Way for the ultimate challenge and fundraiser.

Where?

South Downs Way (Complete) - 100 Miles / 4370m Elevation Gain / Eastbourne to Winchester

Why?

The Armed Forces Network and South Coast Office are supporting the Gurkha Welfare Trust due to the support they provide and the experiences they have personally had with the Gurkha regiment and their heritage with the British Armed Forces. Established in the late 1960s to provide financial aid to destitute Gurkha soldiers and their dependants or widows in Nepal. The Trust has expanded its remit to include community initiatives like schools and water projects, and has developed a comprehensive medical scheme across Nepal. Operating through 21 Area Welfare Centres in traditional Gurkha recruiting areas they ensure that Gurkha veterans, their widows, and their wider communities are able to live with dignity.

The Trust provides financial/individual aid, medical aid, residential homes, water projects, and a schools programme. The Trust aims to provide safe learning environments, sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene services, and an international standard of healthcare and medication to Gurkha veterans and their families living in Nepal.

When?

On Friday the 6th September 2024 at first light, the team will depart from Eastbourne to set out on their way to Winchester, stopping only for food, refuelling and possibly some hugs and encouragement. The team aim to complete this challenge on Saturday 7th 2024 September, estimated to take 36-40 hrs. Supporters are welcome to join the team for a leg or two and welcoming them in to Winchester upon their arrival that evening.