THIS year’s Discovery Trail Challenge — a walk along the Cornish side of the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’s long distance route — will be taking place on Saturday, July 2 and will raise funds for CHICKS (Country Holidays for Inner City Kids).

CHICKS is a national children’s charity, based in Brentor, providing free respite breaks to disadvantaged children from all over the UK. The charity has retreats in Devon, Cornwall and Derbyshire.

Sarah Roberts, regional fundraiser for CHICKS, said: ‘CHICKS began in 1992 and has since provided over 13,000 children with a much needed break. This year we are hoping to give up to 1,200 children a respite break, but need to raise £1.8-million to make this a reality. We are delighted that the Tamar Valley AONB has chosen us for their charity this year.’

Corinna Woodall, manager of the Tamar Valley AONB, said: ‘The opportunities to explore, get back to nature and play in the fresh air that CHICKS provides for children is vital. Research suggests that if children are exposed to outdoor experiences, such as building dens or having fun in the woods before they reach the age of ten, they will have a stronger connection to the outdoor environment throughout their adult lives. The positive impact on health and well-being is also strengthened.’

The Discovery Trail will this year follow the 15-mile route (approximately) on the Cornish side, starting at Calstock and ending at Lifton.

Along the trail there will be refreshment stops, first aid stations and transport at the end, courtesy of CHICKS, to take walkers back to Calstock after the walk.

The Discovery trail is one of the most varied and rewarding routes to walk in the South West. Many people enjoy walking smaller sections of the trail, but longer routes can seem daunting if venturing out alone. This organised walk offers people the chance to walk the Cornish side of the trail knowing that there is help or refreshments close by.

To book your place or for further information, contact the Tamar Valley AONB team on 01822 835030 or email [email protected]