A CHARITY challenge which saw 500 people walk the distance between Salisbury Cathedral and Winchester Cathedral has been hailed a great success.

500 people fastened their walking boots on Sunday (June 15) as they took on the 26-mile Clarendon Way Walk.

£85,000 has so far been raised from the event for the children and young adults’ hospices Naomi House & Jacksplace.

Money raised will fund more than 3,030 hours of expert nursing care.

Naomi House & Jacksplace have actively been working to reduce their carbon footprint as well as working to make events such as this more environmentally friendly.

This meant that walkers at this year’s Clarendon Way Walk were awarded sustainable medals as they crossed the finish line.

The medals are fully biodegradable and plastic-free as well as containing a wildflower seed, allowing participants to plant it after the walk.

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Additionally, for every medal sold, a tree will be planted. These medals are handmade by a social enterprise set up by Earth Runs that offers employment opportunities to individuals facing challenging circumstances.

The eco-friendly medals were well received by the walkers.

One walker said: “I am looking forward to seeing my wildflowers grow, reminding me of a great day spent with friends.”

Another said: “I loved the medals and the fact they can be planted to grow flowers to give even more memories of the day.”

Charlotte Patrick, events team leader at Naomi House & Jacksplace, said: “We are delighted that the Clarendon Way Walk has raised an incredible amount for Naomi House & Jacksplace.

“I would like to say a tremendous thank you to all of those that fundraised for the hospices. The sponsorship allows us to continue supporting families across central-south England whose children have incredibly complex medical needs.”

Paul Morgan, director of fundraising and communications, said: “We are astounded by the support we have received from the Clarendon Way Walk.

“Every single person who has donated is helping us to continue planning, building and developing our services for the families in our care.

“We provide 24-7 expert palliative care, and we couldn’t do it without the passion and dedication from our supporters.”

Clarendon Way Walk 2026 registration is now open, which will mark the 20th birthday of the annual event.

Sign up by visiting naomihouse.org.uk/cww26