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Best foot forward

This year, the team at The Wessex Conference Centre at Sparsholt College thought it would try something a little bit different to celebrate Mothering Sunday, by joining up with Breakthrough Breast Cancer, the charity which encourages peoples to raise funds by taking part in its "Crocus Walks" campaign.

Placed as it is in 450 acres of beautiful Hampshire countryside, it was a perfect fit. With a choice of three walks, one of up to a mile, one of up to two miles and one of just over seven miles (all tried out personally by members of the team and their families), there was something to suit all ages, from the very young to the young at heart. The two shorter walks took place across the fields and on footpaths around the College campus, while the longer walk started at the College and then followed a route through the surrounding countryside and a nearby pretty village.

Around 140 people turned up at The Wessex Conference Centre, between 10am and 3.30pm, on a bright and beautiful (though very windy!) day, to help raise money for the charity. Adults paid £1 and the under 10's, paid just 50p to take part and everyone was entered into a free raffle to win a scented, pink potted rose grown at the college.

After the walk, everyone was encouraged to return to Bytes dining room for a well-deserved slice of home-made cake and a cup of tea or coffee. Payment was by donation and The Wessex Conference Centre is delighted to confirm
that a total of £374.84 was raised on the day, excluding sponsorship money raised by individuals who took part.

Sue Reeves, Conference Co-ordinator commented:

"With the choice of three different walks, there really was something for everyone. Lots of people came to see and admire our herd of deer and children loved looking out for the Spring lambs in the fields. Not only was it a great way to raise money for the charity, but we were delighted to see so many people who would not normally have visited the College and found out about the facilities we offer."

For further information, please contact Amanda Stebbing on 01962 797546