Step up this January for a Winter Wander

Francis House Children’s Hospice is inviting walkers of all ages to step up this January and take part in a New Year Winter Wander in support of children and young adults with life-limiting conditions.

For the first month of 2022, individuals, families and friends are being asked to embark on a walking challenge to raise funds for the children’s hospice that cares for more than 500 families from across Greater Manchester.

Rachel Nasiri, Francis House fundraiser said: “Whether you wish to walk in memory of someone special, in solidarity with somebody receiving care, or simply to show your support for your local children’s hospice, the Winter Wander is for you.

“Every year we organise the Francis House Cheshire Three Peaks challenge and we wanted to extend our offering of fun and memorable walks around Greater Manchester. Every route has been planned to take in beautiful countryside and we can’t think of a better way of kickstarting the New Year and supporting local families.”

There is a choice of four different routes on offer, or any route over any distance can be undertaken.

The Lymm Loop in Cheshire is an eight mile circuit along the Bridgewater Canal and Transpennine Trail, taking in Dunham Massey on the loop back to Lymm Village.

The Turton Reservoir Round in Bolton is a seven mile route beginning at Jumbles Country Park and winding past three different reservoirs with two pub stops along the way.

The Saddleworth Circuit in Oldham starts and finishes in Uppermill. The eight mile walk takes in four villages, a Roman fort and an 18th century coaching house.

The Higher Poynton Hike covers eight miles from Nelson Pit to Lyme Park and back, offering moorland views and a glimpse of Mr Darcy’s grand residence.

A fee of £10 per participant – under 16s are free – includes a registration pack containing route guides, a Francis House beanie hat, bag of sweets, child’s activity sheet and sponsor forms.