Richard Bennett, who is a trustee for The Mill in Coppermill Lane, set off on a bold 700km walk across the country on 13th April, completing it on Sunday 31st May, writes Marco Marcelline
A long-time trustee of a Walthamstow community centre has raised £5,500 for The Mill Community Centre by walking 700km.
Richard Bennett, 70, undertook the challenge to raise funds for The Mill in Coppermill Lane, which has been operating for over 14 years.
The adventurer arrived at the Mill on Sunday, 31st May, after weeks on the road raising money and awareness for the community organisation.
After setting off from The Mill on 13th April, he returned on Sunday 31st May at 1.30pm, where he was greeted by fellow trustees, volunteers, and members of the local community.
Richard was presented with a handcrafted rosette and medal, while The Mill’s children’s Lego Club honoured him with a one-of-a-kind Lego trophy.
The Mill offers inclusive activities and groups, a free kids playroom, an honesty library, community events, and a welcoming living room for local residents of all ages.
Speaking about his fundraising attempt, Richard said: “I’ve seen the impact The Mill makes – giving people of all ages and backgrounds a place to connect. Turning 70 felt like the right moment to celebrate the community spirit at The Mill and our belief in ‘People Making Things Happen’.”
The first week of his walk saw him taking on the Thames Path all the way to Staines, Windsor and finally Maidenhead, before eventually making it to Oxford at the end of his second week, and to the source of the Thames in Gloucester at the end of week three.
From there he passed through Cirencester, Chippenham, and Bath before starting the Ridgeway National Trail through the Chiltern Hills.
His final week saw him take on the Lea Valley Walk from Leagrave to Tottenham Lock before making it back to The Mill on 31st May.
The fundraiser was hosted on JustGiving, where supporters can still contribute to the campaign. Every donation will directly support The Mill’s ongoing work, helping to keep its doors open and its programme accessible to all.
For more information or to support the campaign, visit the “Making 70 Happen” page on JustGiving
Find out what’s on at The Mill here
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