The annual Hospice trek, which this year takes in the beautiful landscapes of Jordan, has been launched deep in the Suffolk countryside with Chief Executive, Barbara Gale, marking the occasion on top of a camel!
Resplendent in traditional dress, Barbara was joined by Adrian Williams, a Trustee at the charity and former headteacher at County Upper School in Bury St Edmunds, and the Hospice's Challenges and Events Fundraiser, Jenny Baskett. Not forgetting the vital role played by camels, Cuthbert and Sonny, from the Oasis Camel Centre near Halesworth.
Barbara said: “It was my first experience on a camel but it was great fun and they were lovely, friendly animals.
“The Jordan trek is a great opportunity for people to raise money for the Hospice but also enjoy a fantastic ‘once in a lifetime’ experience.”
Jenny, who also wore traditional dress to mark the launch, said she hoped the community of West Suffolk and Thetford would play their part in capturing the spirit of the trek.
“The Hospice’s annual treks are always great fun and a great experience. It offers a chance to try new things, meet new people and raise thousands of pounds for the Hospice.”
The eight-day trip to Jordan will offer five days of walking while also offering a chance to float in the Dead Sea, explore the Red Rose city of Petra and experience a giant sleepover in communal Bedouin tents.
Participants are asked to raise £2,700 for the trip which can incorporate paying their own costs of £1,700 while raising a minimum of £1,000 in sponsorship.
The trek was launched at the Oasis Camel Centre near Halesworth where owner, Ray Smith, offered two of his camels to help give a flavour of the fundraiser.
Mr Smith, who has kept camels for 30 years, said: “We were delighted to help the Hospice and the trek sounds like it will be a great experience.”
More information on the Oasis Camel Centre is available from http://www.oasiscamelcentre.co.uk.
Anyone who would like to find out more about the trek should contact Jenny Baskett on 01284 747614.
