Longmynd CWUHA Charity Hike – all set for Saturday 5th  

Union Matters August 28 2020



Longmynd Platoon 2019

Friday 28th August 2020

Scaled-down it may be, with fewer participants and no open fires to barbecue burgers and bacon, but the Longmynd Hike is very much ON this year, reports John Turnbull of CWU Mid-Wales the Marches & North Staffs Branch.

“I’m so pleased we’re still able to do it this year,” he tells CWU News “and, although there are fewer of us, we’re all looking forward to the big day – it’s going to be great!”

This 20-mile charity walk by John and his intrepid band of veterans – or indeed any volunteers willing to join him – has been an annual event ever since 2010, when he first thought of this gruelling way to raise funds for, and awareness of, good causes.

Most years, our own CWUHA has been the beneficiary of this ‘yomp’ across what John describes as “Shropshire’s rolling hills in England’s green and pleasant land” – and it’s the CWUHA which has been chosen for 2020 as well.

“There are a few restrictions on us this year, understandably so in the circumstances of course, but this has reduced our usual numbers by about half,” he explains and adds that “the ban on pit fires and barbecues will mean no bacon butties or burgers on the march.”

But the always resourceful ‘Sergeant’ Turnbull has found a solution to ensure his loyal platoon don’t go hungry or thirsty.

“Our starting point this year will be the town of Church Stretton,” John tells us “and they’ve got everything we’ll need for rest and refreshment.”  

So on Saturday 5th September, wherever you are, and whatever you’re doing, please spare a thought for the ‘Fearless Longmynd Strollers’ – particularly if it’s raining!

And please, if you can, please spare some cash, a donation towards the fantastic work of our union’s own humanitarian aid charity.

Anything, any sum, large or small, will make a big, big difference to all of those vulnerable and needy individuals whom our CWUHA aspires to help. During the Covid-19 pandemic it will be the poorest children who will suffer most.

Meantime, best of luck from us all to John and everyone out there on Saturday 5th!


  • If you’d like to show your support for the Longmynd Hikers, please donate to the CWUHA here