An abridged version of a report from Jonathan Billingsley
On 9 th July 2007 Matthew and Jonathan Billingsley embarked on a seven day trek along Offa's Dyke. The aim was not only to enjoy a strenuous walk in beautiful scenery but also to raise funds for the Skills Centre in Sierra Leone supported by the Olney Newton link. As novices to long distance footpath walking they planned to do half the total 180 miles by starting from Chepstow near the Severn Estuary and finishing off at Knighton at the Offa's Dyke Visitor Centre.
As the week progressed and the miles per day increased the physical exertion of walking each day, with no rest days, began to take their toll – stiff joints, tired knees and a need to retire to bed earlier each evening. The scale of the terrain was certainly a major contrast to the soft landscapes around Olney; the route takes you over a number of hills.
The weather en route was mixed; two scorching days during which they developed a healthy tan/sunburn but two of the days were miserable, consisting of wall to wall rain, low cloud and mist. A great catalyst which spurred them on to the finishing line was the knowledge that every step would help contribute to improving the lives of residents in Newton . We and they are most grateful to the many friends in Olney and beyond who generously supported their efforts.
A big thank you