South Shropshire woman’s challenge to cross 70 bridges for cancer charity passes halfway point
Heather Ashton from Bishop’s Castle had planned to complete the challenge last year before the death of her partner.
A South Shropshire who is planning to walk across 70 bridges for a cancer charity has passed the halfway mark.
Heather Ashton from Bishop’s Castle had planned to carry out the challenge last year - her 70th year to raise much-needed funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK, after a friend was diagnosed with the disease but was one of the 'lucky' ones who survived.
However, last year, Ms Ashton’s partner Dave Pope died suddenly, forcing Heather and Adam Batha, 55, who she cares for, to halt their family challenge.
But the pair began again earlier this year with a number of people joining them on their trips, and have said they have now passed beyond the halfway mark, crossing 42 bridges.
"Despite the heat, we have continued on the challenge to walk 70 bridges for Pancreatic Cancer UK and have now crossed 42,” said Heather.
“Last month we were joined by Sandra Grosvenor to cross six bridges over the Severn in Shrewsbury. It was a wonderful way to see the town.
“More recently, along with Frances Robbs, the challenge involved a longer journey to Newcastle to cross the bridges over the Tyne.
“This was one of the trips being planned with Dave Pope just before his sudden death last year. We’d walked the same bridges together in September 2019.
“Last week during our two days in the north we met several people who had sadly lost family to Pancreatic Cancer. Some were training for their own challenge. Others kindly donated to the charity.
“Our favourite bridge was the atmospheric High Level Bridge at night.
“The next project will be in Bridgnorth. We’d love to have company along the way. For us it is is also in memory of Dave who had the original idea.”
Anyone wanting to make a donation or join in with the challenge can obtain details from Heather on 07792 180577.
You can donate to the cancer charity directly at: fundraise.pancreaticcancer.org.uk
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