Bridge the Gap 2024 charity walk in Cambridge is already being planned

Work is already under way to plan this year’s annual Bridge the Gap charity walk, which will go behind the gates of University of Cambridge colleges once again.

The Cambridge Building Society has confirmed that it will again be the headline sponsor for the popular, family-friendly event, which will take place on Sunday, 15 September. This will be its 16th successive year as headline sponsor.

The Cambridge Independent will again be supporting the walk, which was launched in 2001. Since then, more than 47,000 walkers have helped to raise more than £690,000 for local charities.

Last September, more than 1,350 walkers helped to raise £27,000, which has been shared equally by Arthur Rank Hospice Charity (ARHC) and Romsey Mill, the event’s two charity partners.

A planning team, comprising representatives from the two charities, the headline sponsor and event partners the Co-op, Rotary Club of Cambridge and Cambridge 105 Radio, have already begun to plan for the event.

Tickets will go on sale in May, and all proceeds will be shared equally between the two charities.

Sharon Allen, CEO of ARHC, said: “Bridge the Gap is a wonderful event, that provides walkers with a unique experience, taking in several of the city’s historic colleges in a single route specifically designed for the event.

“We are excited to be planning for this year’s Bridge the Gap charity walk, with all of our event partners, and are extremely grateful to The Cambridge Building Society for their continued support as headline sponsor, and for all they practically do, to help plan and deliver the event.”

Neil Perry, chief executive of Romsey Mill, added: “The Bridge the Gap charity walk creates a wonderful sense of joy and community, for everyone who takes part on the day.

“That includes each of the walkers; every single one of our amazing volunteers and route marshals, and all the businesses and community groups who generously give their time and financial support, through sponsorship or gifts in kind.

“We are planning for this year’s event to be even bigger than before and we look forward to welcoming everyone for a great occasion on 15 September.”

Peter Burrows, CEO of The Cambridge Building Society, said: “We are always so happy to lend our support for the Bridge the Gap charity walk as headline sponsor. It is one of the annual events that our people and members particularly enjoy.

“This unique community event supports two great local charities, enabling them to continue their vital work, and we are delighted to play our part in helping to make it happen.”