Towpath trekkers
by Pete Bennett
(Herald Express 15/6/2006)

THE HEAT IS ON: Below Graham Caygill. Above, other walkers take the marathon in their stride.

With a marathon effort in blistering heat 82 walkers took on the hospice's union challenge on Sunday.

The gruelling 26.6-mile event led walkers from North Hyde Gardens in London along the towpath of the Grand Union Canal to Berkhamsted.

Despite the scorching weather -the hardy hikers kept going and hope to have raised around £15,000 for the Hospice of St Francis.
Louise Cecil, of the hospice, said: "We had 47 walkers do the full 26.6 miles and 35 did the half marathon from Rickmansworth, and all but five completed it, in 31 degree heat, so it was boiling hot.
"I think they did a fantastic job and I feel they should all be congratulated for what they did for the hospice."
Walkers had to keep taking on water and every step became a battle as exhaustion took over.

HeraldExpress Editor David Feldstein and Sports Editor Graham Caygill were among the willing walkers who tackled the marathon trek.
Graham said: "It was a really tough day, especially in that heat. We set a good pace at first and got off to a great start but those last six miles were just a killer! Every metre was a chore. It felt so good to reach the end.
"I'd definitely do it again - but maybe not for a while! I was pleased to get involved and do my bit to help the hospice."

Louise added that she hoped the walk would become an annual event.
She said: "Hopefully it could get bigger and better every year. We are grateful for all the success and support the walkers gave, in exceptional weather conditions."

Suppport crew take the easy route