HUNDREDS of walkers put their best foot forward for an annual event raising money for groups and charities in Billericay.
The Fun Walk took place at Barleylands Farm, Barleylands Road, on May 19.
Nearly 900 people entered one of two walks – a three mile route taking in the public footpath around Crays Hill or a shorter walk around the farm suitable for toddlers, families and the disabled.
Representatives of local charities and voluntary groups were also on hand in a barn to talk about their work and offer activities and goods to raise money.
Gateway FM broadcast live from the walk, which was led off by Billericay town crier Jim Shrubb.
The bonus pot sponsors, who add to the overall fundraising total the charities raise, contributed around £45,000 this year.
These groups included Swan Housing Association, NYSE Euronext, c2c Rail Ltd, Veolia Environmental Services, Hallmark Care Homes, Toomey Motors, Bellway Homes, Barratt Homes, Selex ES Ltd, IFE Global Logistics and Barrie Stone as well as others.
Last year the walk raised over £100,000 and although the total is yet to be calculated this year, it is thought to be as much if not more due to the record number of walkers.
The event, which is now in its 11th year, was founded by John Baron, the MP for Basildon and Billericay.
Mr Baron said: "We had a great day with a barn full of stalls, more walkers than ever before, a fantastic barbecue, medals, certificates and even sunshine.
"My thanks go to our family of volunteers, the bonus pot sponsors, the marshals, police and Barleylands Farm for all their help and support.
"It was a fantastic team effort which was rewarded by a generous public.
"Over 100 charities and projects have benefited as a result."
He added: "Charities and projects raise money themselves through sponsorship and in addition I have asked generous companies and individuals to put money into the bonus pot.
"Last year it accounted for 60 per cent of all money raised.
"I am very excited that we have been granted charity status – the walk has grown and it still has tremendous potential."
Mr Baron explained why he originally started the walk: "I believe that the role of MPs should be proactive as well as reactive.
"We should use the position to get out in the community and do good like a lot of other people do and we are very lucky in Essex as there is such a strong charity and voluntary ethos and lots of good causes.
"I thought, well why not establish a walk to help them.
"The big charities find it easier to raise money than the smaller community ones."
There will be a presentation with the bonus charities at 6pm on September 13 at Anisha Grange Care Home, in Outwood Common Road.
