News, events and schools' information for families across Bath and West Wiltshire

The Royal United Hospital in Bath is calling on mums, dads, grandparents and carers to help raise thousands of pounds for patient care through a couple of very special events in 2019.

The Walk of Life takes place on 11 May 2019 along the Kennet and Avon Canal, from Bishops Cannings (near Devizes) to Bradford on Avon and on to Bath and will be part of the charity’s ‘20th Year of Fundraising’ celebrations, making it a special year to get involved!

There are two distances to choose from, the 26.2 mile walking marathon starting in Bishops Cannings near Devizes (opened by Michael Eavis CBE) and the afternoon 10 mile walk, which joins in the fun at Bradford on Avon. Both walks finish at the iconic Holburne Museum in Bath. Please note, mileage is approximate.

The RUH touches the lives of over half a million people across Bath, Somerset and Wiltshire. It’s where babies are born, broken limbs repaired, where we are treated and cared for, learn to manage long-term conditions and much more. Because the hospital means so many different things, you can choose to walk for any area/ward/campaign that is close to your heart, and the funds you are able to raise, will help fund extra special projects and state of the art equipment (beyond the remit of the NHS) that will transform care for patients, at a time when it matters most.

Last year’s event raised an incredible £110,000 and it is hoped that in 2019, it will continue to raise thousands more.

Registration is now open at www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk or call 01225 821535. The walk is open to men and women, and entry is £25, which includes a t-shirt, medal, water and treats on the day, plus lots of support. The event is proudly sponsored by Kier Construction and M J Church.

For the more adventurous, the ‘Trek the Great Wall of China for the RUH’ takes place from 5-13 October 2019

Calling all adventurers, walking-enthusiasts and one-of-a-kind experience-seekers! The charity for the Royal United Hospitals Bath (RUH), The Forever Friends Appeal, is looking for local people to join their trekking team – who are hiking along the Great Wall of China in October 2019. You’ll explore the twists, turns, steps and slopes on this Wonder of the World, trekking on all types of incredibly challenging terrain (becoming well acquainted with steps!) but the breath-taking views everywhere you look will be worth it! You’ll also become part of history as you help rebuild part of the Wall, before ending this journey of a lifetime in Beijing… and all in the knowledge that every step you take will support patients and their families back home.

There will be an Information Evening at the RUH on Wednesday 23 January. This will feature an evening of presentations about fundraising and the trek itself, including a Q&A session with a Global Adventure Challenges trek leader, as well as a chance to hear about previous trekkers’ experiences. To book your place or find out more, visit www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk or contact Maddy on 01225 825823 / email hidden; JavaScript is required.