Sir Thomas and Richard step out in support of the Astroturf Appeal

Volunteer gap year teacher Richard Ingilby joined his father to help raise money for the Cundall Astroturf appeal on Sunday, when both completed the 26.2 mile Nidderdale Marathon Walk. The walk, from Pateley Bridge to Angram Reservoir and back, follows the Nidderdale Way climbs 2,000 feet across the moors on both sides of the valley, and the combination of steep hills, rough stone tracks and one of the hottest days of the year proved made it an exceptionally tough challenge. Sir Thomas and Richard were amongst the few to complete the course – a lot of people didn’t make it due to the heat and exhaustion. ‘We pushed ourselves pretty hard, particularly given the conditions. The highlight was when we sat down on a bench below Middlesmoor church to grab a quick bite to eat: the church bells broke out in a joyous peal behind us. We wondered if they were celebrating the fact that we were still upright!’ said Sir Thomas.
The last hour was a real test of stamina and both were exhausted when they reached the finishing line, having completed the walk in an excellent time of nine hours, with just one 15 minute rest for lunch. ‘It was a huge effort but we have so far raised £475 for the Astroturf appeal’, said Sir Thomas. ‘My thanks go to all those who supported us, and gave us the incentive to keep walking. If anyone else wants to back us they can do so on www.justgiving.com/sir-thomas-ingilby2.’