Test Way Fundraising Walk
Andover Trees United’s fantastic Cabin builder Ben Startup and regular volunteers Andrew and Shane have completed a sponsored walk to raise much-needed funds for the Cabin being built in Harmony Woods. It was a long-distance walk over three days, Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th September 2023 and covered the whole 44 miles of the Test Way.
Walking the Test Way was an idea that came from Ben. He had wanted to walk the route and thought it a fantastic opportunity to raise funds for the Cabin. He spoke to Andrew and Shane, who have been volunteering for ATU for several years and are keen walkers themselves, and all three agreed to do the sponsored walk.
The Cabin has been part of the vision for Harmony Woods from the outset: to build an off-grid and sustainable classroom, field-study centre, community base, and volunteer room, one that is sensitive to its surroundings and sits well in the landscape. The portable cabin and shipping container were the beginnings… planning permission was approved, skilled crafters and builders appointed and, thanks to the generosity of ATU’s supporters, the funds were raised to complete the basic structure. Unfortunately escalating costs have meant that we have had to spend funds earmarked for the internal fitting on the main build itself. Donations are now needed for the third and final phase - fitting out the inside.
Ben, Andrew, and Shane met early on Saturday 23rd September to begin their Test Way Walk. They were picked up by our Nature & Community Officer Abbey Sadler, and dropped off at the official start point of the Test Way, Combe Gibbet. The team enjoyed beautiful views and, although it was a rather hilly start, managed to complete 17 miles on the first day (between 8am and 3pm), finishing at The Plough in Longparish.
On Sunday 24th September the team began at a similar time as the day before, this time where they left off at the Plough in Longparish. They were hoping to make it to Mottisfont that day, but as they reached that goal by midday, they decided to push on a further 5 miles to Sadler’s Mill in Romsey. All together the team walked their longest distance of 19 miles. While walking this stretch they met with other ATU members Liz Scrace and Annette Hobbs, who were both walking on behalf of Andover Trees United as part of Rotary’s ‘Walk the Test Way’ event (funds were split 80% to Andover Trees United and 20% to Rotary).
On Monday 25th September the team walked the remaining 8 miles of the route, from Sadler’s Mill in Romsey to Eling Tide Mill - completing the whole 44 miles of the Test Way. Fellow volunteers and ATU staff members Abbey, Jo, Annette, Terri, and Laura met the team at The Anchor Inn (next to Eling Tide Mill which was unfortunately closed), to welcome them across the finish line and congratulate them on a job well done.
Andrew said:
I'm enthusiastic about nature and the environment, and Andover Trees United provides me with opportunities to connect with nature, enhance my well-being, and support young people from the community. Participating in the 44-mile walk challenge allows me to push my limits for a meaningful cause, all while being autistic.
I hope the outdoor classroom cabin build will inspire the younger generation to get more out of nature and to protect the environment as this walk is supporting.
Shane said:
Walking the Test Way was such a memorable and blissful experience, especially alongside amazing walking companions. On the route, we witnessed such majestic scenery and also key remnants from our historical past. The walk itself did wonders for my mental health, inducing mindfulness. Walking in nature certainly helps us to alleviate our personal struggles in life.
As of 26th September, the current sponsorships are over £1000 including online and cash donations. Ben, Andrew, Shane, and everyone at ATU would like to thank those that have sponsored them so far. You can still sponsor them on their Global Giving page. (100% of funds will go to Ben, Andrew, and Shane, who will pass on 100% to Andover Trees Untied).
