Parkinson’s UK’s Walk for Parkinson’s is coming to Wokingham on Sunday July 7.

The charity is calling on local people to lace up and sign up to this fundraising walk that fuels life-changing research.

Walk for Parkinson’s will take place at Dinton Pastures Country Park and is a part of the charity's national fundraising series where people in the community can help to fund vital research into better treatments and a cure for the condition.

Whether you’re a seasoned walker or looking to take on your first fundraising challenge, Walk for Parkinson’s is suitable for everyone.

There are two different routes available for people to choose from at Dinton Pastures Country Park, Participants can expect to enjoy woodland, meadows and whether they take on the shorter two-mile route, which is fully accessible, or the longer six-mile route.

Walk for Parkinson’s promises not only steps, but smiles too as walkers will warm up together, walk together, and finish together with other members of the Parkinson’s community. Refreshments will be available as well as designated water stations to re-fill your bottles.

There will also be various stalls within the event village providing support and information about Parkinson’s.

Ruth Watkins, 56, from Lower Earley near Reading was inspired to get involved and fundraise for Parkinson’s UK because she was diagnosed with early on-set Parkinson’s in 2017 and hopes to make a difference to others affected by the condition. Ruth will be walking alongside her family, including husband Jason, mother Elaine, sister Gemma, daughters Becky and Lauren, with their partners Theo and Cam, and several colleagues. 

Ruth is calling on others to join her in taking part as this is a chance to stretch those legs, meet people in the Parkinson’s community and contribute to groundbreaking research. Ruth said:

“Being diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's has brought many challenges, but events like this bring hope and a sense of community. I arranged a walk myself around Virginia Water previously, but this is my first time joining an organised group walk. I am looking forward to feeling part of the wider Parkinson's community and being surrounded by my supportive family and friends.

"Living with Parkinson’s impacts my sleep, my flexibility, and most significantly, the dystonia in my feet. Finding better treatments and, ultimately, a cure would mean everything to me. It would allow me to fully enjoy life and spend quality time with my family and friends without the constant worry of my symptoms." 

It costs just £12 to sign up to Walk for Parkinson’s (under 18s go free!) and it's suggested you try and raise £50 in sponsorship. All walkers will receive a fundraising pack with tips and advice, sponsorship forms and an exclusive Walk for Parkinson’s t-shirt to wear on the day. 

As well as walkers, the charity is on the look-out for volunteers to help on the day. To find out more about Walk for Parkinson’s and to sign up to walk email walk@parkinsons.org.uk