It was a bright idea which suddenly popped into the head of keen walker and Monmouth Rotarian Norman Williams which has led to a phenomenal fundraising success!

“Why don’t we organise a sponsored walk along the River Wye,” he suggested to fellow members seventeen years ago with the amazing result that this annual event has now raised a stunning £152,000, for the Cardiff based Velindre Cancer Care Charity.

And on top of that is has also boosted Rotary Club funds by a further £51,000 towards good causes!

“I could never have guessed at the time just how successful our annual Walk the Wye event was to become,” admitted Norman an innovative manufacturing engineer who had his proverbial lightbulb moment after his retirement.

“But of course it’s really all down to the big hearted and generous people of Monmouth and surrounding areas who have turned out every year in their hundreds to support us,” he emphasised.

Norman and all his fellow Rotarians have just received big thankyou from Velindre Ambassador and former cancer survivor Angharad Underwood from nearby St Briavels who joined them at The Monmouth Showground where this year’s Walk the Wye will start on Sunday May 10.

“I made a complete recovery from Breast Cancer thanks to Velindre Cancer Care eleven years ago and have been finding ways to support the charity ever since,” she said.

Velindre Cancer Community Fundraising Manager Elin Wyn Murphy said she also wished to extend the charity’s heartfelt thanks to Monmouth Rotary Club for their continued dedication and support through their annual Walk the Wye challenge.

“The incredible amount of money raised each year is truly appreciated and makes a meaningful difference to patients and their families receiving care.

“Their commitment, enthusiasm and community spirit are inspiring, and we are so grateful for the lasting impact this fantastic fundraiser has on our work,” she said.

“As part of Velindre University NHS Trust, we are committed to excellence in treatment, teaching, research, and development, ensuring the highest standards of care for those affected by cancer said Elin

“Our flagship facility, Velindre Cancer Centre, located in Whitchurch in Cardiff, is one of the largest and most respected cancer centres in the UK. Here we specialise in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy and palliative care, offering cutting-edge treatments and compassionate support to our patients” she added.

Norman said this year’s walks would encompass four routes from which to choose with the most challenging being the 16 miles trek back from Chepstow including 2,700 feet of Ascent.

“We have varied the walks so there is something for all the family from a 4 miles circular riverside stroll to a 10 miles trek back from Tintern involving 1250 feet of ascent and a 12 miles circuit from Monmouth and back via Redbrook and Wyegate Green and incorporating 1200 ft of climb,” he said.

Early entries would be most appreciated so to sign up please visit www,walkthewye.com