OVER £13,500 has been raised for Melksham-based charity, Evie’s Gift, with a challenging trek on the Jurassic coast – which has been described as “the biggest and best” fundraiser yet.
The charity reports, “On Saturday 12th June, 82 amazing walkers trekked 14.5 miles around the coast at Swanage as part of Evie’s Jurassic 13 in memory of Evie Clover who died from a brain tumour three years ago, and to raise money for the charity set up in her name.
“Evie had loved the Jurassic coast, so it was fitting that we had an event there. The weather was glorious and the views spectacular. Because of Covid-19 rules, the walkers were set off as soon as they arrived at the start point.”
Evie’s dad and founder of the charity, Bryan Clover, said, “After we had to cancel the event last year because of the virus, we wanted 2021 to be the biggest and best yet and we certainly achieved that.
“We had 82 people walking and they all really entered into the spirit of the event. In one team, everyone painted their nails pink, while another brought toy dinosaurs and took photos as they went around.
“The bright pink of the shirts meant that we stood out in the crowds and so many wonderful people in Swanage wanted to donate to us as we walked round the route.”
The walk has raised over £13,500 so far and the charity hopes that the total will continue to grow.
Bryan added, “It was a very warm day and there were three really steep hills to climb, but it is meant to be a challenge, so we are chuffed that everyone completed the route and helped us to raise so much money.”
Evie’s Gift was set up over three years ago to support families whose children are critically-ill in hospital far from home. The charity has kept working throughout the three lockdowns and has now helped 777 families.
To find out more about the charity and to donate, visit the Evie’s Gift website: www.eviesgift.org.uk
