A new charity event is set to take place in Swindon, making use of one of the town's newest walking trails. 

Great Western Hospital's charity Brighter Futures has partnered with South Swindon Parish Council on what it is calling 'The GR8 Walk'.

Taking place on Sunday, September 24, 2023, the GR8 Walk is a circular route along the South Swindon Green Trail – an eight-mile trail that explores South Swindon’s natural world, historical transport links and local history. 

Parish Councillor Linda Kasmaty was involved in the discussion and planning of the event. 

“I thoroughly enjoyed being involved in discussions about the best routes to follow for the Green Trail, and then testing them out by walking along them.

"We are very proud of our fantastic Green Trail; we are so fortunate in South Swindon to have such wonderful opportunities for walking in such varied and beautiful environments," she said. 

Kenresa Stratford, fundraising projects manager for Brighter Futures, hopes it can continue on from the two Enchanted Gardens Lights Trails. 

She said: “We’re delighted to once again be working with South Swindon Parish Council on this exciting new event. This walk will be giving the community a chance to explore the green trail and some of the amazing green spaces that Swindon has to offer.

"We’re thrilled that the fundraising from this event will go towards the urgent and emergency care expansion, which is the second phase of the Way Forward Programme."

Anyone is welcome to take part in the walk; either alone, in a group, with family, friends or colleagues.

Dogs are welcome, and the route is accessible for wheelchair users and pushchairs, however, in some instances where the route is less accessible, there are alternative routes available.

The walk starts at 10am from Coate Water Country Park before heading to Croft Wood, East Wichel, Rushey Platt, Cambria Bridge, Town Centre, Fleming Way, Magic Roundabout, Marlowe Avenue, Shaftesbury Lake and finishing back at Coate Water.

Fundraising for the event will go towards the second phase of the Way Forward Appeal, supporting the development of a new Emergency Department at Great Western Hospital.

The following early bird rates are available until July 31, 2023: Adults are £10, children are £8, family tickets are £23 and under 5's are free.

To register for the event visit https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/GreatEightWalk or visit the Brighter Futures website.