Anyone living in Halton knows what ‘The Haven’ does.  This year they have cancelled a number of events because of Covid-19 and they have asked the community to support them by helping to raise funds through the People’s Pound appeal.  Well I’m one of the community and I’ve decided to do my bit too.

One of the events cancelled is a sponsored walk which would have seen 250 people walking 8 miles across Morecambe Bay, led by the Queens Guide to the Sands, on 28^th June.  Myself and some friends have decided to take on that challenge for all 250 people.  I will begin by using my exercise time to cycle and then I will add to that by counting my daily indoor mileage to complete 250 miles over 9 ⅟₂ days.  I will then pass the challenge on to a second participant who will do the same.  The eight sections will complete the 2,000 miles that would have been covered if the walk had gone ahead.  It begins on Easter Monday and will end on Sunday 28^th June.

I’m doing this because The Haven is somewhat of an “unsung hero” of our community… it has helped so many families in the area care for loved ones during their final stages of life and also offer counselling to patients and their families who are dealing with dark times. Three of those affected families will be involved in this challenge, myself who had the Haven care for my late brother Stuart, and my school friends Ross and Mark who also have the Haven to thank for caring for their late mothers. This will be a difficult task but the team are motivated and with your help, you will make a massive difference.

Please consider sponsoring Team O’Neill with a donation to support this much needed charity.