Clumber’s big walk out!

More than 1,500 people donned their trainers as they took part in Macmillan’s Big Walk at Clumber Park on Saturday to raise money for cancer services.

Special guests on the day and fresh from competing in the Olympics this summer were swimmers Hannah Miley and Jo Jackson and cyclist Jess Varnish.

The athletes took part in a warm up and joined walkers, who were raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support, around the stunning setting.

The Big Walk is the flagship event for Miles for Macmillan – a programme of 55 walks nationwide organised with support from partner Boots UK.

Olympic swimmer Jo Jackson said she was delighted to be taking part in the event to help raise money for a cause close to her heart.

“It is great to be here today at this brilliant event and seeing everyone coming together for Macmillan Cancer Support. I’ve been supporting Macmillan’s sponsored walking programme, Miles for Macmillan, supported by their partner Boots UK and have been clocking up my own miles through training and competing this summer.”

“I’m proud to have donated 865 miles to Miles for Macmillan. Being here today is very personal as my grandmother was supported by a Macmillan nurse.”

Alex Talcer, national event programme manager for Macmillan, thanked everyone who took part in the walk.

“It was great to see so many people showing their support for people affected by cancer. Macmillan relies on its supporters for 96 per cent of its income,” she said.

“Money raised through this event, which is supported by our partner Boots UK, will help the Macmillan Team support people affected by cancer every step of the way.”

“If you missed out this time, don’t worry, more walks are planned next year.”

Oonagh Turnbull, head of CSR – Charity and Community at Boots UK, added they were proud to be supporting Miles for Macmillan again this year to help improve the lives of those with cancer.

“It is fantastic that the Olympic athletes we have been working with, and who have been dedicating their training miles to Macmillan Cancer Support, were able to join us on the walk,” she said.

“Through the partnership, we are helping to deliver more ways for people affected by cancer to get information and support on the high street, in local communities and online.”

l To find out more about future Miles for Macmillan events, and how to organise your own walk, visit macmillan.org.uk/walking or call 0300 1000 200 (9am-5pm Monday to Friday).