Walkers raise cash in African aid effort

The Inverclyde International Women's Day Challenge aimed to cover the same distance as from Greenock to the city of Rwamagana, to raise funds for Greenock-based charity Aid for Education.

Around 40 people took part in the challenge, which ended today, clocking up 15,810,480 steps along the way.

The walkers celebrated with one final trek together on Greenock's Esplanade.

The sponsorship of local individuals and businesses raised £1,120 which will allow the charity to support around 12 women to start their own enterprises.

Greenock couple Sarah and Douglas Kakooza, founders of Aid for Education, headed up the walking challenge with the support of local man Duncan Galbraith, founder of the World Walking app.

Sarah told the Tele: "We are delighted with the outcome of the challenge, we had around 40 people sign up and managed to hit our step target before the end date.

"We walked 6,737 miles and were able to get a small group together to do the final walk together to let us hit our target.

"The money raised will allow us to help support women in Rwamagana and we are keeping the fundraiser open until the end of the month for those who would still like to donate."

Sarah and Douglas were joined in the final steps by their children Lois, Pheobe and Simeon and walkers Lizzy Todd, Olivia Gillen, Robyn Wilson, Helen McCormick, Sandra Reynolds, Carolyn and George Speirs, Gillian Renwick, Gillian Clark.

Sarah has thanked everyone who took part and pledged their support including local business Tweetiepie Media.

She added: "Tweetiepie were out every week as a group and between them managed to raise a few hundred pounds.

"Duncan has also been brilliant providing the platform to allow us to record our steps and keep track.

"We'd like to thank everyone who offered their support."

To donate to the fundraising appeal, visit bit.ly/3mpIFnX

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