Walker backs walkers

The man with the most apt name at Exeter Chiefs has thrown his not inconsiderable weight behind Hospiscare's Men's Walk.Tony Walker is backing the event, which begins and ends at his place of work, SandyPark - the home of the in-form Premiership rugby team.

And the New Zealand-born former player is urging Chiefs fans to take part in the fundraising drive. The 10k walk takes place on 17th March and, afterwards, those taking part will get to refuel with a free pint and a pastie while watching the England v Ireland Six Nations game on the big screen.

Tony and his colleagues at the rugby club have been promoting the event on their website and match day programme. He said they were looking forward to playing host to the hundreds of walkers who have already registered for the event.

“It has all the ingredients for a great day out,” added Tony, who is now the Chiefs community development manager.

“If all you have to do to raise money for a fantastic local charity is go for a brisk walk and then enjoy a beer, a pastie and a great game of rugby, what’s not to like?”

Registration for the walk, which is sponsored by South West Communications, is now open and full details are available by phoning 01392 688020 or at www.menswalk.co.uk

Any males aged 12 or over are eligible to take part in the event, which is being billed as the perfect boys’ day out. All of the money raised from the new event will be used to support patients and their families across Exeter, mid and east Devon.The walk is the first key fundraiser for local charity Hospiscare in its special 30th anniversary year.