In pictures: Bridge the Gap is a sunny success

Nearly 2,000 people helped raise more than £33,000 by taking part in the annual Bridge the Gap charity walk through the streets and colleges of Cambridge last Sunday morning (15 September).

Some 1,979 gathered at Parker’s Piece from 9am to take part in the family-friendly walk, which the Cambridge Independent was proud to support once again.

The event is organised by, and in aid of, Arthur Rank Hospice Charity and Romsey Mill, with The Cambridge Building Society as headline sponsor for the 16th time.

This year’s route took in five Univerity of Cambridge colleges – Christ’s, St John’s, Lucy Cavendish, Jesus and Emmanuel, plus Westminster Theological College – featuring on the Bridge the Gap route for the first time.

Twenty volunteers from the Society of Cambridge Tourist Guides (SOCTG) provide expert insight about the history of the colleges.

Ruth Meyer, the lead organiser for SOCTG, said: “Walkers enjoyed hearing facts and stories that furthered their understanding of the historic colleges and locations.”

Walkers also enjoyed music on the route from Waterbeach Brass Band, at Emmanuel College, and from Malcolm Fovargue on their return to Parker’s Piece, where East Anglia Swing Troupe entertained.

Some 140 volunteers gave their time to support the event.

More than £33,000 has already been raised from registrations, with more to come from sponsorships.

Bridge the Gap was launched in 2001, and more than 47,000 walkers have now helped to raise more than £735,000 over the years.

Sharon Allen, CEO of Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, thanked all those who attended and helped, adding: “We are extremely grateful to each of the colleges for enthusiastic support in providing access to their beautiful grounds.

“I also want to thank all the route marshals who volunteered and gave their time freely, to enable the walkers to have a great experience.”

Neil Perry, chief executive of Romsey Mill, said: “Once again, Bridge the Gap has been a brilliant day! I love how this event brings so many different aspects of Cambridge together for a great day.”

Peter Burrows, CEO of The Cambridge Building Society, said: “We are so proud and delighted to be able to invest in and help plan and deliver Bridge the Gap.

“We had over 100 people from our team and their families taking part, as well as providing many volunteers on the day.”

The event was also backed by TTP Group, Cambridge University Press and Assessment, Cambridge City Rotary Club and Cambridge 105 Radio.