Pub staff step out for charity walk
HUNDREDS of pub staff took on a charity walk to raise money for the Foundation for Prader-Willi Research UK.
The 320-strong group, made up of staff from pub group Almond Family Pubs, which runs five pubs, organised their fourth annual 12.5-mile charity walk for the foundation.
The walkers, all dressed in blue, started at the Fletchers Arms in Denton, stopping off at the Spread Eagle in Romiley, the Puss in Boots in Offerton and the Three Bears in Hazel Grove on the way.
The walk finished with a celebration and fundraising party at The Hesketh, Cheadle Hulme.
The Foundation for Prader-Willi Research UK (FPWR UK) is close to the Almond family’s hearts, as it funds research into Prader-Willi Syndrome, which company director Vicki Almond’s daughter, Bella Williams, was diagnosed with at two weeks old.
This rare syndrome affects just one in 20,000 children born in the UK and causes a constant desire to eat, driven by a permanent feeling of hunger.
It can lead to dangerous weight gain, while the condition also often results in restricted growth as well as reduced muscle tone, learning difficulties and behavioural problems.
A combination of sponsorships and donations have taken the current total raised to £17,300.
Vicki said: “For the fourth year now we are absolutely astounded by our community’s generosity, enthusiasm and commitment to support our charity.
“We are totally blown away with the amount of money raised, it really will make a difference to this small charity.
“This year we were proud to include seven families with children with Prader-Willi Syndrome within our 300-plus walkers.
“As the condition is so rare, it is so special when families affected can get together and share that peer support.
“An extra special moment for us was being able to watch our little girl walk over the line herself this year, something she’s never had the strength or muscle tone for before.
“We all had a fabulous day and can’t wait for next year.”