Virtual step challenge based on Gosport landmarks set to get community active in support of Gosport Voluntary Action

Encouraging people to keep active, the Walking From Home challenge was launched by Gosport Voluntary Action this week to connect residents and raise funds for the charity’s support services.

Volunteers in Gosport have helped more than 450 residents with 3,000 tasks including collecting shopping, prescriptions and friendly phone calls, alongside providing support and information services to residents and telephone befriending for those who are isolated.

Anyone can take part in the challenge throughout May, whether they are shielding at home or able to get out for some daily exercise.

Emma Kemp, walks co-ordinator, said: ‘We wanted a challenge that would engage people and allow them to feel connected and stay active at this difficult time.

‘Staying active at the moment is really important, and walking helps with both our physical and mental health. I know I feel better after I've been for a walk.’

Virtual step targets have been set up to include local routes such as 3,150 steps around Stokes Bay or 12,730 steps along the Gosport coast - so even if you can’t get out, you can virtually walk the landmark over whatever time frame you’d like.

Each walker will pledge to take part and, if possible, fundraise for the charity via Facebook Donate, or on The Good Exchange platform at app.thegoodexchange.com/project/18019.

Ian Reeves, chairman of Gosport Voluntary Action, is taking part alongside his wife to reach the ‘Round the Isle of Wight’ target of 115,000 steps, and they are trying to reach their targets independently.

Ian said: ‘We decided to take part as a way to stay active, and to try to raise funds and highlight our Covid-19 Community Response fundraiser.

‘We also liked the idea of having a challenge, with both of us doing it there is no opportunity for a lazy day and it will naturally be competitive to see who reaches the goal first!’

For more information about taking part, visit gva.org.uk/news/walking-from-home.

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