Challenging trek in Glendalough

HUNDREDS of trail-blazers are expected to take to the hills of Glendalough later this year as they join the battle against blindness.

The eighth annual Glendalough Trail will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 4, in aid of Fighting Blindness. With the option of a 15.5km run or a 9.5km jog/walk, the event is open to people of all fitness levels.

Over 350 participants embraced the challenge last year and now walkers, runners and joggers are being called upon to join their ranks and take on this scenic, off-road experience.

The Glendalough Trail is unique, with a carefully planned route through the beautiful valley and a great variety of underfoot terrain. Although challenging, it is also very achievable.

Spaces are limited because of environmental restrictions in the area so participants are advised to register early to avoid disappointment at www. GlendaloughTrail.com.

The entry fee is €20, with a further €50 minimum fundraising target, and all proceeds will support the quest for cures and treatments for blindness.

Fighting Blindness works with rare, genetic, age-related, and degenerative eye conditions that affect an estimated 246,000 people in Ireland. The organisation also provides counselling and peer to peer support services for people and families affected by sight loss. For more information, visit www.FightingBlindness.ie. THE Samaritans are looking for volunteers and are holding a number of information evenings over the coming weeks.

If you have a couple of hours a week to spare and are interested why not come along to one of the upcoming information nights to find out more.

The events will take place in Arklow Library on Tuesday, August 29 at 7 p.m. and Gorey Library on Thursday, August 31at7p.m.