Hundreds of walkers will take on stretches along an epic 200-mile route in Greater Manchester, as Oldhamers have been encouraged to join the challenge.
The ‘Summertime Trek’ will see intrepid hikers raise vital funds for projects in the region. It has been launched by the GM Ringway and Greater Manchester’s walking trail.
The 200-mile route connects all 10 boroughs of the region and will kick off on June 21, the longest day of the year. It will culminate in a final celebration in Manchester city centre on August 26.
Designed around footpaths, parks and open land, the GM Ringway is green in every way, as it has been designed to be accessed by public transport.
The route takes in attractions like stately homes, museums and ancient monuments. There are also plenty of pubs, cafes and restaurants along the way.
Individuals and groups can raise funds by walking the trail using the free Go Jauntly walking app, which includes ten shorter GM Ringway walks – including five step-free ones – that can be walked or ‘wheeled’ to raise funds.
The team behind the project will also run a series of guided walks that are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Andrew Read, GM Ringway’s project lead, said: “This is the perfect partnership as both the GM Ringway and Forever Manchester are all about improving the lives of everyone who lives in Greater Manchester.
“Not only will we deliver a great event but we also hope to foster a sense of community. There’s already a real buzz about the GM Ringway and this will get even more people out in the great outdoors exploring more of the region.
“We want everyone taking part to have the best time this summer, as well as improving their health and well-being and making some incredible memories.”
Nick Massey, chief executive of Forever Manchester, said: “The GM Ringway has already captured the imagination of local people who are lacing up their walking boots and getting out and about on the trail. We expect to see a lot of our regular supporters sign up to the challenge.
“This is also a great opportunity for Greater Manchester’s businesses to take part in, whether as a team-building away day, for client hospitality or even as a volunteer day.”
With every mile covered, the money raised will help community projects making a difference to local people’s lives. Sign up for a free event pack and start fundraising for Forever Manchester.
The first 25 fundraisers will get a free t-shirt.
A list of each of the 20 stages, alongside shorter and more inclusive step-free walks, can be found on the GM Ringway website.
Each stage starts and finishes at a public transport stop – in most cases a train station or tram stop.
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