In April, Richard Budd took part in Trek 24 – Suffolk after hearing about the event at our Norwich Base Open Day earlier in the year. The walking event, which took place along the Suffolk coast and countryside, became a family affair when his partner, Leigh and daughter, Rachel decided to also support the event as volunteers.
Richard, from Sudbury, completed the 24-mile route. He was inspired to take part after seeing the helicopter and learning more about our lifesaving work at our Base Open Day. As a former runner, he couldn’t resist signing up for Trek 24 to lend his fundraising support.
“I loved the challenge of Trek, and the training gave me something to work towards,” Richard explains. “On the day, I walked solo for the most part so I could go at my own pace, but I chatted with people at the start line – where there was a great buzz – and along the way. I ended up raising £250 in aid of East Anglian Air Ambulance.”
The route passed through the Suffolk coast and countryside, including Southwold. Richard and his family are regular visitors to the town so he made sure he stopped off at a few of his favourite places along the way.
Six and a half hours and 24 miles after his start, Richard approached the end point at the Sotterley Estate, where he knew Leigh and Rachel would be there to cheer him over the finish line – not just as his supporters, but as volunteers for East Anglian Air Ambulance. The event wouldn’t be able to take place without the incredible support of people who can give their time to help, and it’s especially lovely to have family members joining forces to lend their support.
“My feet were getting sore towards the end, so I was glad to see the finish!” Richard continues. “There was a lovely, friendly atmosphere and, when I crossed the line, Leigh and Rachel were holding the ribbon.”
Leigh says, “Rachel was home from university that weekend and it was lovely and wholesome to be able to volunteer together.”
“We were based at the finish line – in charge of cheers and the bubble machine – and we got to meet other volunteers. It was an amazing experience.”
Leigh and Rachel had been tracking Richard’s progress on their phones so they could be sure to hold the finish tape for him as he crossed the line.
“It was really quote emotional, and we were so proud of him,” Leigh says. “Everyone was cheering the Trekkers as they finished. It was great to volunteer – we got so much back from it. I was on a high!”
Trek 24 – Cambridgeshire will take place on Sunday 6 September, and registration is open for the 24-mile, 24km and 2.4-mile routes. If you’re not able to take part but would still like to support the event, please speak to us about enjoying the experience by volunteering instead.
Leigh adds, “If you can’t take part in Trek but you still want to make a difference, volunteering at the event is just as inspirational.”
A huge thank you for Richard, Leigh and Rachel for their wonderful support.
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