Hundreds of Cambridge walkers register for the Bridge the Gap ‘early bird’ offer

More than 200 people have already snapped up the early bird offer and registered for the Bridge the Gap charity walk on September 15.

Walkers can take advantage of the discounted £16 rate and gain access to six fabulous Cambridge landmarks, only until midnight on July 12.

The walk,which starts at 9.30am, begins and ends at Parker’s Piece. Over the space of the morning, walkers will be invited into Christ’s, Queen’s, Corpus Christi, Pembroke and Downing Colleges as well as the University College Library.

The family-friendly walk sponsored by Cambridge Building Society, welcomes around 2000 participants annually, spanning all generations.

The early bird price of £16 per adult is on offer until midnight on July 12. Throughout the walk, the Society of Cambridge Tourist Guides will be on hand to offer interesting historical tales and provide an array of information about the University of Cambridge’s stunning grounds and the college’s features.

A range of activities will be taking place on Parker’s Piece and there will be musical entertainment along the route, including performances from Sing! Choirs and Jazz Wave. The City of Cambridge Brass Band will play for walkers as they pass over the finish line and make their way towards the ‘Time for Cake’ tent or one of the food and drinks stalls - the holders of which are kindly donating a percentage of their proceeds to the two benefitting charities, Arthur Rank Hospice Charity and Romsey Mill.

The Bridge the Gap committee consists of Arthur Rank Hospice Charity - a long standing beneficiary - and Romsey Mill who came on board in 2016, as well as the Cambridge Building Society (headline sponsors), alongside sponsors TTP, Cambridge Assessment and the Rotary Club of Cambridge whose continued support ensures that 100 per cent of participant’s entry fee directly benefits the charities.

Last year saw the addition of Co-op Food Stores to the organising committee, as well as media partners Cambridge Independent and Cambridge 105 Radio, all of whom are once again lending their support to the community event this year.

Donna Talbot, director of fundraising and communications for Arthur Rank Hospice charity, said: “I was lucky enough to be able to walk the route last week and whether you are returning walkers or this is your first time, I am confident that you are going to love what we have planned for you. With every turn there is so much to see, from the stunning centuries of architecture to the beautifully presented gardens, you can’t fail to be impressed. Furthermore, it is a wonderful way to support two charities who touch the lives of so many in the county.”

Neil Perry, chief executive for Romsey Mill, added: “Whether you are new to Cambridge, or have been here for a while, the Bridge the Gap walk provides an enjoyable and accessible opportunity to discover many of the city’s unique sights and features. This year’s route includes well known landmarks like The Mathematical Bridge at Queens’ College and the university library, as well as many hidden courts, chapels and gardens within college grounds.

Prices increase to £18 per adult after July 12. Online registration will continue to be available until 1pm on September 13, or walkers can sign up on the day for £20. Up to three children, accompanied by a paying adult are free of charge, although donations towards the cost of their places are encouraged.

As well as being a charitable event, Bridge the Gap walk is also a sociable occasion. Groups of friends, families or work colleagues are welcome, with special rates offered of £16 per person within a group of 10 or more, until Friday 13 September. For group bookings please call Arthur Rank Hospice Charity on 01223 675888.