Sheffield Round Walk to Support Assistance Dogs on June 6

On Saturday, June 6, 2024, Sheffield will host an exciting event that combines a love for the great outdoors with a chance to make a real difference in the lives of people affected by autism, epilepsy, and physical disabilities. The Sheffield Round Walk, organised by the charity Support Dogs, invites participants to explore the stunning landscapes of Sheffield while raising funds to train life-saving assistance dogs.

Support Dogs and Its Mission

Founded in Sheffield 34 years ago, Support Dogs is a national charity dedicated to training and providing specialist assistance dogs. These dogs play a crucial role in enhancing the independence and quality of life for individuals facing various challenges. They assist:

• Children with autism, helping them navigate everyday situations.

• Individuals with epilepsy, alerting them before a seizure occurs.

• People with physical disabilities, enabling them to perform daily tasks more easily.

The charity aims to raise awareness about these important issues while also providing a fun way for the community to come together and support a worthwhile cause.

Details of the Walk

The Sheffield Round Walk offers two options for participants:

• 24km Circular Route: This longer route stretches out into the beautiful Peak District, taking walkers through parks, woodlands, and suburbs.

• 5km Shorter Route: This family-friendly option heads to Forge Dam and back, making it perfect for those looking for a more relaxed stroll.

Both routes start from Bingham Park, providing a scenic backdrop for the event. Participants can choose to walk with or without their dogs, making it a fun outing for all.

What to Expect

According to Katie Williamson, the community fundraising assistant at Support Dogs, this event is not just about raising funds; it’s also an opportunity to celebrate the beautiful countryside surrounding Sheffield.

“This walk aims to raise funds for our vital work in this city, but also is a chance to celebrate the wonderful countryside that surrounds us all,” she said. “We’re inviting people to get out there and enjoy the great outdoors while helping to fund our incredible support dogs.”

After completing the walk, participants can look forward to some delicious cake, which promises to be a delightful treat after the exercise. For those with furry friends, there will also be doggy goody bags at the finish line.

Exploring the Routes

The shorter 5km route is designed to be enjoyable for families and includes several interesting stops:

• The Shepherd Wheel: A historic working museum showcasing Sheffield's cutlery industry.

• Whiteley Woods: A lovely area where walkers can choose between the famous stepping stones or a more straightforward path.

• Forge Dam: A picturesque spot perfect for a break before heading back.

The longer 24km route takes walkers on an adventure through some of Sheffield's most beautiful landscapes:

• Past Ringinglow on the edge of the Peak District.

• Along the Limb Brook Valley and past Whirlowbrook Hall.

• Through Ecclesall Woods and up to Dore and Totley railway station.

• Through Graves Park and Lees Hall Wood, before finishing at Endcliffe Park.

This longer route promises stunning views and a good workout, perfect for those looking to challenge themselves while supporting a worthy cause.

How to Get Involved

Registration for the Sheffield Round Walk starts at £5, with a suggested fundraising target of £50 for those taking on the full 24km route. There is no fundraising target for the shorter route, making it accessible for everyone. Participants can enter as individuals, teams, or families, and group discounts are available.

Registration opens at 8am on the day of the event, with the walk starting at 9am. Markers, checkpoints, and marshals will be present along the route to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

For further information or to register, visit www.supportdogs.org.uk/sheffield-round-walk or email fundraising@supportdogs.org.uk.

The Sheffield Round Walk is a fantastic chance to get active, enjoy the natural beauty of Sheffield, and support a charity that changes lives every day. With a mix of challenging and easy routes, there’s something for everyone, including the beloved four-legged friends who are always welcome.