A GROUP of fundraisers walked 37 arduous miles starting from St Mary’s Church, Redberth, completing their journey at St David’s Cathedral the following day after a final three mile dash.

One of the walkers, Fern, writes: “Our Journey, which was undertaken by Rev’d Hannah, Julie, Rob, Mike, Claire and I to raise money for The Carew Group of Churches was not only a physical journey but a spiritual and mental one too.

“So many emotions were prevalent throughout. Blood, sweat and tears were shed, an inordinate amount of blisters earned and some dreadful rashes gained but it was absolutely worth it. I personally would do it all over again.

“We made the realisation that all six of us are not native Pembrokeshire people. We have all moved into the area, have been embraced by our communities and we have all chosen to celebrate this by raising money for our Churches.”

Starting at 8am on Saturday, May 17, the walkers made their way to St Mary’s Church, Carew, on to St Michael and All Angel’s Church, Cosheston and ended their day in the YHA in Broadhaven. They resumed the challenge at 7.30am on the Sunday, setting off to St David’s Cathedral with the aim of arriving in time for the 4pm Evensong.

“Day one was mentally challenging for us all,” Fern continues. “The long, boring walk from Cosheston to Tiers cross certainly took its toll on us all. I was not looking forward to this stretch but I did not expect it to zap every ounce of mental strength from me. I have never been so excited to sit down and tuck into pasta and salad! The walk from Tiers Cross to Broadhaven was far more picturesque.

“Day two was not without its challenges. The terrain was much more physically tough but you almost didn’t notice. The views were outstanding. The turquoise colour of the sea combined with the pink sea thrift, yellow buttercups, blue sky and green grass, not forgetting the bluebells and foxgloves we saw along the way was simply mesmerising. We saw Pembrokeshire in its glory.

“We were met by Janet Ingram, of St David’s Cathedral, who walked with us to St Non’s and then guided us into the Cathedral at 3.55pm. We just about ran the last three miles to make it there on time but we were determined. The service at the Cathedral was simply the best way to end our adventure.

“Upon reflection, we all share the same feeling that we are now firm friends. This journey has brought us all together in a way we never expected. Only we shared this tough yet rewarding journey.”

On behalf of all the walkers, Fern thanks everyone who has donated so far.