Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is calling on nature lovers to participate in the Big Wild Walk during this October half term, joining forces with Wildlife Trusts nationwide to raise funds for the protection of Britain’s invaluable wild spaces.
In a departure from previous years, the Big Wild Walk now offers participants the freedom to shape their own adventure. Whether walking, running, cycling, wheeling, or swimming, individuals can contribute to the cause. Every effort counts, and the funds raised will support local Wildlife Trusts, contributing to The Wildlife Trusts’ ambitious target of safeguarding 30% of the UK’s land and sea for nature by 2030.
The Wildlife Trusts spearhead various projects across the UK, including the reintroduction of keystone species like beavers, habitat restoration, and the creation of more extensive, buffered, and interconnected areas for wildlife. In Wiltshire, the Wildlife Trust is actively restoring precious chalk landscapes and chalk streams, providing vital sanctuaries for endangered species ranging from rare butterflies like the Duke of Burgundy and marsh fritillary to the elusive water vole and the captivating lapwing.
This autumn, The Wildlife Trusts have partnered with Aardman Animations, the multi-Academy Award®-winning animation studio, to create Timmy Time materials, engaging families with young children in the initiative. The Hedgehog Walk, designed for pre-school and Key Stage 1 pupils, encourages children to walk 3km in a week, mirroring the nightly journey of a hedgehog.
Scheduled during half term from Monday 16th to Monday 30th October 2023, the Big Wild Walk invites participants to sign up at wildlifetrusts.org/bigwildwalk.
Adding a touch of excitement to this year’s challenge is the endorsement from Rhiane Fatinikun, the founder of Black Girls Hike and the Big Wild Walk’s new ambassador. An advocate for the outdoors and community organiser, Rhiane encourages individuals, regardless of ability or background, to embark on a wild adventure in support of nature.
Rhiane Fatinikun shares, “Signing up to the Big Wild Walk is a fantastic way to support nature and wild places whilst doing something you love. Or mix it up and turn it into a run, swim, or bike ride – the choice is yours! I hope lots of you join us this October to champion nature by having a wild adventure no matter how big or small.”
Television presenter and athlete mentor, Steve Brown, echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the inclusivity of the Big Wild Walk. “However big or small your adventure, all funds raised by taking part in the Big Wild Walk will contribute towards The Wildlife Trusts’ goal of protecting and connecting 30% of UK’s land and sea for nature by 2030.”
Joanna Lewis, CEO of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, encourages families to use the Big Wild Walk as an opportunity to experience the vibrant autumn colours while contributing to the preservation of wild places. She notes, “If your path takes you through woodlands, October half term is great for discovering weird and wonderful fungi too.”
As participants gear up for their unique adventures, the Big Wild Walk stands as a testament to the collective effort required to protect and nurture the natural wonders that make the UK a haven for wildlife.
