UK EVENTS walker Clive Lewis, of Stonelea, New Hedges, has been working tirelessly in the county raising sponsorship for his 15th series, scheduled for late February 2011. He has made inroads into the initial target he aims for on each occasion. Meeting many known sponsors and, of course, many new ones too, in their own homes, Clive has covered a great number of miles already.

The first phase of next year's event will start at Kingston Bridge on the South Bank of the River Thames, culminating at the flood barrier in New Charlton.

The second phase will be down the towpath of the Grand Union Canal, reaching Little Venice in the Paddington area through the northern approaches, to arrive at Limehouse Basin between Shadwell and Limehouse Causeway on the North Bank of the river east of Tower Bridge.

"A minimum figure of £4,000 is essential, as this amount should purchase two major items of medical equipment which are not a provision of the National Health Service. However, I will exceed this amount," stated Clive.

Results from his last series hit the jackpot, as in his up-front fund-raising, an eventual figure of around £6,000 was secured. From this, Clive purchased a blood machine for anti-coagulation therapy patients at South Pembs Hospital; a semi-recumbant cycle for the gymnasium in the New Cottage Hospital in Gas Lane, Tenby; and a centrifuge for spinning blood samples plus a defibrillator for the two clinics in Northfield Road, Narberth (Meddygfa Rhiannon).

Obviously, at this early stage, no agreement has been reached, as Clive will be approaching practice and general managers in Pembrokeshire. When meetings and discussions at each practice take place, contact with Clive will be made. If his account has the necessary finance, cheque presentations will the then take place, usually a month or so later.

Clive says he will keep Observer readers informed.

"So it's lots of walking and talking around our beautiful countryside and I will be buzzing away over the next five months," said Clive, who added: "I learn so much from the long chats, the fun and so many interesting stories, good and sad ones."