Hike To The Pike 4 Parky Annouced For 2020
On Saturday 8th February 2020, the Gary Parkinson Trust is inviting supporters to join us in taking on a 20-mile round walk from Westhoughton to Rivington Pike and back, all in support of Parky.
Gary, who lives in Bolton and will be present on some part of the walk, was a former professional footballer for Middlesbrough, Southend United, Bolton Wanderers, Burnley, Preston North End and Blackpool, but sadly suffered a brain stem stroke in 2010 and now suffers from locked-in syndrome.
The condition is one of total paralysis apart from eye movements, and he now requires 24-hour care and the use of a wheelchair at his family home.
The walk, which is open to all ages and is expected to take around 6 hours, will start from Westhoughton Cricket Club, passing through Westhoughton Town Centre, Chew Moor, Lostock, Horwich and then Rivington with a stop along the way for refreshments.
Walkers will have a chance to drop out at this 10-mile point, or continue back to Westhoughton Cricket Club to complete the 20-mile route, where sandwiches will be waiting.
Gary's family including his wife Deborah, and children Luke, Chloe and Sophie will all be taking part in the walk.
Luke said, "We'd love as many people as possible to come and join us.
"Walking up Rivi is a tradition for the people of Bolton, so we'd love for you to come and join the Gary Parkinson Trust family for the day and raise some vital funds.
"We'll all be in it together, so whether you're a seasoned hiker or just a lunchtime step counter, we'll keep everybody going until the very end."
Dogs are welcome on the walk itself, as long as they are kept on a lead, and free parking will be available at the Cricket Club.
Suitable footwear and clothing will be required, and it is each walkers responsibility to stick to footpaths and follow the countryside code.
The Gary Parkinson Trust will not be liable for any loss, damage, action, claim, cost or expenses which may arise in the consequence of your participation in or attendance to this event and walkers attend at their own risk.
Entry is £10 per person and 100% of the funds raised will go directly to the Gary Parkinson Trust.
We also have sponsorship forms available to download to help raise even more for the Gary Parkinson Trust or you can direct people to our JustGiving page if they would like to donate online.