Mum to walk 52 miles in one day in memory of four-week-old son
Vicky Welsh will walk 52 miles for Sense. Picture: RidgeWalk - Credit: RidgeWalk
A mother from Easton-in-Gordano will use her son’s memory to inspire her with a mammoth trek for charity this weekend.
Vicky Welsh will hike more than 50 miles in 24 hours following the death of her four-week son Ben, 21 years ago.
Ben had congenital cytomegalovirus - a virus babies can develop before birth.
Vicky is hoping to raise a huge amount for disability charity Sense.
Vicky, who runs a Nordic walking business in Bristol, said: "Had Ben lived, he would have faced multiple disabilities and we would have relied heavily on the support of charities like Sense.
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"I love walking so this challenge seems a fitting way to remember Ben and to raise money and awareness for this amazing charity that works to make sure that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential."
RidgeWalk is an annual trek organised by Sense along the RidgeWay trail.
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Speaking ahead of the trek this weekend, Vicky said her and friend Nicola had been busy training up for the walk, which at 52 miles is almost the same distance as two marathons.
The 51-year-old added: "Neither of us have ever walked this distance in one go before so we've been setting aside every Thursday and increasing our mileage week on week - 26 miles is now our standard.
"We did our longest back-to-back walk last week in Cornwall which was gruelling."
The RidgeWalk begins at the historic Marlborough College, and will see Vicky walk 52 miles through the day and night.
The picturesque route through Oxfordshire and Wiltshire takes participants past landmarks such as Avebury Stone Circle and Barbury Castle, before looping back to Marlborough College for the big finish.
Richard Kramer, Sense's chief executive, said: "Taking part in the RidgeWalk is an incredible challenge and we are very grateful that Vicky has chosen to support Sense. Through participating, Vicky will help to improve the lives of children and adults with complex disabilities.
"On behalf of everyone connected to Sense, thank you and the very best of luck."
To donate towards Vicky's challenge, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/victoria-welsh6
