Walkers facing Wrekin challenge for charity

Fundraisers will be heading up and down The Wrekin this weekend to raise money for a Shropshire-based charity backed by England goalkeeper Joe Hart.

The Wrekin Challenge will be held for the second time on Saturday and Sunday in aid of Shropshire Mind.

Manchester City and former Shrewsbury Town player Hart is supporting the event by donating a shirt he wore in a match against Norway last month to be raffled. Tickets for the raffle will be available at the base of The Wrekin throughout the weekend.

Clive Ireland, executive officer at Shropshire Mind, said: “Having such a high profile benefactor as Joe, who supports local charities such as ours, is incredible at raising the profile of the service we provide and allowing us to continue to expand the delivery throughout Shropshire.

“The money is vital in extending support which is currently provided in Bridgnorth, Ludlow, Market Drayton, Shrewsbury and Whitchurch.”

Last year volunteer Tony Poulter set the record for the 24-hour Wrekin Challenge by completing 20 ascents and descents of the 1,335 ft landmark in 24 hours.

This year anyone can enter, either as individuals or as a team with friends or colleagues. Families are also welcome to enter as a team.

The entry registration fee for the 24-hour challenge is £10, and £5 for the eight-hour challenge. Entry for the four-hour challenge will be sponsorship only.

Everyone completing the 24-hour challenge will receive a medal and certificate.