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

Julian House has launched its annual Circuit of Bath Walk, which will take place on Sunday 27 September, and is calling on families in the local area to join them in stepping out and standing up against homelessness.

The sponsored circular walk, now in its 19th year, will see families, friends and individuals walking around some of Bath’s most beautiful countryside and surrounding villages, with spectacular views across the historic city itself. While the charity is encouraging as many people as possible to take on the full 20-mile route in 2020, participants can choose their own distance and start point thanks to the five checkpoints along the route and a free shuttle bus service between each. There is a route to suit every ability, including a special buggy friendly path along the Kennet and Avon canal path.

Gary & Annie Noyce (age 8) after competing the whole route for the fourth time

Children will also be treated to a free activity pack about the history of Bath that they can complete on the day.

Due to Coronavirus, Julian House has had to cancel or postpone all its other fundraising events for the year and until recently close its charity shops and bike workshops, which will result in a massive hit of over £200,000 to its income. Income will helps fund its vital services.

Senior Community & Events Fundraiser, Jess Gay, said, “The Circuit of Bath is a really important event in our fundraising calendar – especially this year. Everything our families raise in sponsorship by taking on the walk will be used to help fund our vital services, including our hostel and domestic abuse refuge, which have been in high demand during the pandemic and will likely continue to be as lockdown eases.

“We are very aware of the situation around COVID-19 and will continue to monitor and follow the advice being issued. The safety of the community, participants, staff and volunteers is and always will be our top priority and thanks to the staggered start points social distancing can be followed if still necessary by September. We would like to reassure anyone who purchases a ticket to the event that they will have the option of a refund if the event has to be cancelled for this reason.”

The Hayes family after completing last year’s walk

Early bird tickets are now on sale until 30 June, at £10 adult, £5 child and additional group discount for 10 or more people. Dogs are always very welcome.

“While participant’s entry fee goes towards the cost of organising the walk, every pound and penny they raise through sponsorship goes towards helping us support vulnerable men, women and children in our care,” added Jess. “There is no minimum sponsorship target, but we hope people will aim to raise as much as possible to help us through this extremely challenging time so we can support as many people as possible.”

Further details and tickets can be found online at www.circuitofbathwalk.co.uk.

For any other details please get in touch with Community and Events Fundraiser Jess Gay on 07939055432 or email hidden; JavaScript is required