DOWNLEY resident David Coles is urging local people to participate in a ‘Walk to Remember’ in a bid to raise money for a charity dedicated to caring for people suffering from terminal illness.

The sponsored walk, on Sunday 14 July, is hosted by Rennie Grove Hospice Care. The event offers people the chance to celebrate their memories of a lost loved one whilst fundraising for others facing bereavement.

As a long-term supporter of Rennie Grove and a regular volunteer marshal at sponsored events, David will be back-marking the walk, ensuring that everyone safely completes the 10 km route.

He explains his motivation for taking part: "Iain Rennie nurses cared for my wife, Anne, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She wanted to be cared for at home and the Hospice at Home nurses made sure she could be.

"For me the event is an opportunity to walk in our beautiful countryside and contemplate my memories of Anne. The route takes in the Iain Rennie Memorial Woodland in Wendover, where I planted a tree in Anne’s memory four years ago."

David has walked many miles in support of Rennie Grove. Not only does he complete the Chilterns 3 Peaks Challenge every year, but he also trekked for eight days in the Himalayas in 2011 and climbed to Everest Base Camp on his 70th birthday.

"This route will be a welcome break from mountainous terrain," he admitted.

The Walk to Remember is a circular route that starts and finishes at Halton House near Wendover. With music, a barbecue, and family entertainment, those who cannot take part in the walk can still enjoy the event.

Walkers are encouraged to raise money to help Rennie Grove meet the challenges of caring for an increasing number of local patients.

Every penny raised will help to support a local family through difficult times and will give patients the chance to be cared for at home.

To sign up, please go to www.walktoremember.co.uk or call the Fundraising Team on 01442 820730.