Virtual challenge launches this September – with its own podcast!
The RSPCA is introducing a new walking challenge for animal lovers to raise money for the charity, which will see options for all levels of fitness.
From 1-30 September 2024, the RSPCA is inviting anyone and everyone to enjoy time out in nature and join a brand new virtual challenge ‘Walk on the Wild Side,’ where participants can sign up and raise sponsorship as they cover 30, 60 or 150 miles across the month. The challenge will also offer a bespoke podcast for participants to listen to as they clock up the miles – a first for the animal welfare charity’s activity events.
Participants can also buy fox, badger or hedgehog tshirts to wear whilst they clock up the miles.
They can also download a fundraising poster, mile tracker and social media templates to get off to a flying start with their challenge.
Sarah Millerick, Mass Participation Manager at the RSPCA said: “We’re so excited to announce our brand new activity challenge for our supporters to get involved with to raise money for the RSPCA.
“We’re celebrating our 200th birthday, and to make it extra special, everyone who signs up will receive a 200th anniversary pin badge, and have access to our new podcast series about UK wildlife. Those who raise £100 or more will also receive a medal.
“Whether you’re able to walk over 30 miles over the month, 60, or smash 150 miles, the challenge is open to everyone – we just want to see people out enjoying nature and learning more about wildlife at the same time. Join a team and help us create a better world for every animal.”
The challenge is open to all levels of ability:
🦔Team Hedgehog (beginner) Members of Team Hedgehog enjoy a stroll, walking 30 miles
🦡Team Badger (intermediate) If you’d prefer a longer distance of 60 miles
🦊Team Fox (advanced) Want to go further? Join Team Fox and commit to walking 150 miles
Catherine Marsters, from Woking, has signed up already to take part. A volunteer in the cattery at RSPCA Millbrook, Catherine and her husband Andy are joining Team Fox, tackling 150 miles.
Catherine said: “We are walking in memory of our beautiful black boy cat Nuptse, who we sadly said goodbye to in May 2024, aged nearly 17. We’d owned him from when he was a tiny kitten and we really miss his welcoming paw around the door and happy tail when we arrive home. Taking part in this challenge to help the RSPCA help animals is our way of remembering our lovely boy, but also knowing that we’re taking steps to make a difference to the lives of more animals.”
Brittany Brett, from Ipswich, works for a veterinary clinic in Ipswich, and has also signed up to take part.
She said: “Wildlife is an essential part of our country, especially the endemic creatures like the hedgehog. I had the privilege of working alongside a hedgehog rehabilitation centre here in Suffolk. They helped me over-winter three baby hedgehogs I found in my garden. It was hard work but releasing these prickly friends back into my garden once healthy is one of my happiest memories. I am doing the ‘Walk on the Wild Side’ for them and also to help lose the baby weight from having my daughter three months ago. It’s a win win.”
Those who are keen to take part can visit the RSPCA’s website to sign up, or join the challenge Facebook group to find out more – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1037047584664409
