Preston and Lancashire veterans take on 10 million step challenge

Veterans and supporters in training for the 10 Million Steps Challenge

Dozens of former Preston and Lancashire soldiers and families are starting a massive hike today (Saturday 1 May) to raise money for local charities.

The veterans, all former members of the old Queen’s Lancashire Regiment, are attempting to walk no fewer than 10,000,000 steps during May.

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The former soldiers, most of whom are in their 60s and older, have pledged to contribute to a group total of at least 325,000 steps each and every day, for 31 days, in order to achieve the target. It is working out at around 16,250 steps per individual per day.

A training event held last weekend has already totalled 454,992 steps achieved by 28 individuals.

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The 10 Million Steps Challenge is being organised by the Queen’s Lancashire Regiment Veterans Charity to raise funds for Derian House Children’s Hospice, Chorley, and Marie Curie.

Each individual taking part will raise their own sponsorship. In compliance with anti-Covid precautions, they will walk in their own home locations, and have to submit a screen shot showing their daily record to a central data-base.

The daily running total will then be displayed online on the group’s fundraising page.

Joe Horvath, Chairman of the QLR Veterans Charity said: “The thought of walking 10 million steps is mind-blowing.

“However, in team effort mode it can be achieved with some hard work, dedication, and determination and all within the current lockdown rules.”

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Joe, who at 65 years of age will himself be taking part, stressed that the Challenge involved walking, not running or cycling, and would be counted in steps, not miles or the time taken.

Contributions to support the veteran’s 10 Million Steps Challenge can be made through the group’s fundraising page on Virgin Money Giving.

What do you think of the team’s effort? Let us know in the comments.