If you are looking for a way to blow off cobwebs after the the Christmas excess then why not join in the charity walk at Fossey Mountain on New Year’s Day.
The walk this year will be led by Laois County Council cathaoirleach Cllr Padraig Fleming, himself a keen walker who undertook the Camino Walk earlier this year.
He follows in a long line of distinguished guests who have led the walk including swimmer Nicole Turner, Dr Eva Orsmond, former GAA President Liam O’Neill and Irish rugby star Alison Miller.
“This is the 16th year of it. When we started it, the walk did very well so we decided to do it every year,” chief organiser Johnny Dalton said.
The charities benefitting this year are Irish Wheelchair Association for services at Alverna House in St Fintan’s and the Fatima Invalid Fund.
Close to €5,000 is raised each year, although Mr Dalton says there has been a noticeable drop off in donations from companies in recent years.
Photo: Alf Harvey/hrphoto.ie
The walk in Timahoe is one of a number of fundraisers for the Fatima charity which raises up to €12,000 to bring people from Laois to the Holy Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima.
The walk leaves Timahoe on New Years Day at 1 pm.
Participants can choose between a 6k walk or a 10k walk.
Maura O’Brien of the Fatima Fund thanked all those who have supported her over the years, especially Jim Smith, who retired recently.
She also thanked the business people of Portlaoise who have been very supportive for her.
Sponsorship cards are available from Maura (0863344722). They are also available from Eugene Lacey, Jimmy Shiels, John Egan, Nuala Smith and Michael and Margaret Holohan.
Contribution
“If you haven’t got a sponsorship card, you can still turn up on the day and make a contribution,” Mr Dalton said.
While the longer walk is aimed at more experienced walkers, Mr Dalton said anyone can take part, particularly in the shorter walk.
“There is no clock on you. You don’t have to kill yourself and can do it at your own pace,” he said.
On finishing the walk, participants can look forward to sandwiches, soup and tea afterwards in the community hall.
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