Undeterred by the cancellation of the South Downs Marathon Walk back in November, two Cuckfield and Lindfield Rotarians decided to do it anyway - on their own. The walk began in daylight at the Amex Stadium in Brighton and ended in darkness 43 km (26 miles) later at Eastbourne. No spring chickens, Andy Harrison (71), President of the Club and Philip Harrison (76) had been training for the event for weeks.

Waving goodbye to their transport at the Amex Stadium, they set off uphill to join the South Downs Way on the estimated 12 hour hike. First, they made their way over higher ground at Woodingdean, then descended to cross the River Ouse at Southease. before continuing on to Firle Beacon.

Progress over the Seven Sisters later on was hindered by the strong wind, which threatened to toss them over the edge at times. A short respite by the National Trust Café at Birling Gap was welcome as night fell and the rain got harder. With head torches on, and eyes down, Andy and Philip tackled the last six kilometres touching down earlier than expected at 6.15pm.

From family and friends, members of the Rotary Club of Cuckfield & Lindfield raised sponsorship of over £8,500 in support of the magnificent effort. At the next Business Meeting the Club decided on donations to:
The hospices of St Peter & St James and Chestnut Tree House
Family Support Work
Food Bank
Safe in Sussex
Mind in Brighton & Hove
Crawley Open House
Shelter Box
Impact

The Club also conducted an online Christmas Appeal specially for families in need, severely affected by Covid-19, and a street collection in Lindfield. If you would be interested in knowing more about a great group of people who enjoy making a difference, see: www.rotarycl.org