Every penny raised by Sight Concern Worcester’s forthcoming ‘Walk the Blindfold Mile’ will be donated to the charity.
That’s because the event, to be held in Worcester city centre on Saturday 18th April, is being sponsored by Lesk Engineering, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, and Harrison Clarke Rickerbys. Not only are they underpinning the costs of the event, but they will also be taking part on the day.
Jim McBride, Chair of Lesk Engineering and the Chamber of Commerce said, “Walk the Blindfold Mile is about creating awareness of the everyday struggles faced by people with sight loss, and it’s about raising money for Sight Concern Worcestershire. We’re absolutely delighted to be supporting this event once again and so pleased that so many people have already come forward to participate.”
Not least among them are the Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Allah Ditta and the Rev Canon Dr Stephen Edwards of Worcester Cathedral.
The Mayor said, “When I heard about Sight Concern challenging people to go out for a mile along a designated route, I just knew I wanted to take part. We’ll be walking in pairs – one blindfolded, one sighted – and we’ll swap over. During the route there’ll be a number of sensory challenges that will be very illuminating and enjoyable. I’m delighted to be taking part.”
Canon Edwards said, “All of us in the diocese are very aware of how important it is to support people in our community who have sight loss and we’re very pleased that part of the route will take in the Cathedral, where we try to make everything as accessible as possible. For instance, we provide large print leaflets and have a tactile model which people can touch to help them appreciate the history and magnificence of this special building in Worcester.”
Elizabeth Beatty, from Harrison Clarke Rickerbys, added, “The company has a history of supporting this valuable and important charity. We’ll be encouraging our staff to take part and hope the people of Worcester will come along on the day to help make this event a resounding success.”
Sight Concern is seeking 100 people to take part in pairs. A booking fee of £10 per person applies, and everyone is asked to raise as much sponsorship as possible. On the day of the event, participants will be shown how to guide their blindfolded partner and they will be able to swap over during the walk. For more information or to register, go to www.sightconcern.co.uk/walktheblindfoldmile or ring 01905 723245 or email p.weir@sightconcern.co.uk.