Steve in step with charity fundraiser

East Devon businessman Steve Hartland is appealing for sponsors to back him as he puts his best foot forward in this weekend’s Hospiscare Men’s Walk.

Steve, who runs Marla Custom Blinds of Sidmouth, took part in the inaugural Men’s Walk in 2012, raising £250 in sponsorship – and this year is determined to beat that total.

He will be doing the walk, which takes place in and around Exeter on Saturday 16 March, in memory of his late father-in-law, who died 15 years ago.

Steve, from Drakes Avenue, Sidford, said: “When we lost my wife Steph’s father Bill we were, of course, devastated, but it was comforting to know that he was well looked after in his local hospice.

“That’s why I’m always more than happy to support charities such as Hospiscare, which do such incredible work.

“The walk last year was challenging but it was also great fun and there was a massive sense of camaraderie among those taking part. I also got to see some beautiful Devon countryside, which is always a bonus.

“A pint and a pasty at the end were most welcome - the pasty was massive and I don’t know how some people managed to get through two of them!

“A fantastic day was rounded off by us watching England beat Ireland in the Six Nations rugby on big-screen TVs at Sandy Park where the walk finished, so fingers crossed we’ll get a similar result this year when we take on Wales.”

Last year more than 600 people took part in the walk. As in 2012, this year’s 10k event starts and ends at Sandy Park, the home of the Exeter Chiefs Rugby Club. Hospiscare describes it as the perfect boys’ day out.

Sarah Smith, community and events fundraising manager for the charity, said: “We are delighted that Steve is joining the Men’s Walk again this year

“We are thrilled that people who did the event last year enjoyed it so much that they are signing up for a second time - and we hope they will encourage new walkers to come along too.

“Although the day is all about camaraderie and, of course, a pasty and a pint while watching the rugby afterwards, it’s really important to remember that the walk raises vital funds for our patients, enabling us to carry on providing end-of-life care for people in Exeter, Mid and East Devon.”

Steve added: “This year I hope to be able to keep my Twitter followers up to date with my progress, so if you want to know how I’m getting on, please follow me at @MCBSidmouth.”

To sponsor Steve, please call him on 01395 512605 or email stevehartland@marlacustomblinds.co.uk.