The Long Walk Home for Delamere
Comedian and Edenderry native Neil Delamere was on hand this week to help launch 'The Long Walk Home' - a charity walk along the Grand Canal, which will raise funds for the Fr Peter McVerry Trust. The Long Walk Home - Grand Canal Way takes place over four days on the May bank holiday weekend and will raise money for Ireland's young homeless people. The walk begins at Shannon Harbour in Offaly, with walkers taking in approximately 32kms each day, before finishing at the Guinness Storehouse four days later. This week Delamere said: "What better way to spend your May Bank holiday? It has something for everyone - taking in the varied scenery, wildlife and historic sites while enjoying the peace and quiet of the countryside. Getting away from the hustle and bustle of your daily lives - this walk will soothe your soul, refresh your energies and put a spring back in your step. What better way to get fit, make new friends and explore unseen Leinster, all while raising much needed funds for Peter McVerry Trust's work with young homeless people." On Friday May 4 the walkers will be transported from Dublin to Shannon Harbour where they set off on their epic journey along the banks of the Grand Canal. The first night will be spent in Tullamore staying in the Bridge House Hotel where participants will enjoy a lovely three-course dinner with their fellow walkers and have the chance to relax in the hotel's leisure facilities. Next day they head to Edenderry taking in the beautiful scenery en route, including the Bog of Allen. For the next two nights the group will earn a well deserved overnight stay in the Westgrove Hotel, Clane, - a spa haven. The third day covers Edenderry to Sallins. On the final day the group set off from Sallins for the last leg into Dublin, where they will be joined by one day walkers and family groups. Stopping in Hazelhatch for lunch they will tackle the final stage into Dublin. The group's final destination is Guinness's whose historic connection with the Grand Canal makes it the perfect venue to celebrate their achievements. The hardy walkers will be welcomed into the Guinness Storehouse Gravity Bar were they will enjoy fantastic views across Dublin, looking out across the route they have travelled and celebrate a fantastic achievement in aid of Ireland's young homeless people. Participants will be asked to pay a non-refundable deposit of €250 and to fundraise a further €700. Transport, accommodation and meal costs are included. If you would like more to register or find out more about the 'Long Walk Home' Grand Canal Way Challenge please contact Peter McVerry Trust on 01 8230776, fundraising@pmvtrust.ie or www.pmvtrust.ie