Jim Mowatt works for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) and is based at Milton. He joined in December and soon signed up for the charity’s popular Pier to Pier walk, taking place on 25th June.
The fundraiser takes participants on a 32-mile trek along the beautiful Norfolk Coastal Path, from Cromer to Great Yarmouth.
Jim, 58, is taking on the challenge with wife Carrie. He used to be a keen runner before being hit by injury.
“We’re both looking forward to it and have already walked some of the route,” he said.
“It came as a bit of a shock, to be honest. Despite being on the coast, there were these geographical peculiarities known as hills out there and we’re not used to that here in Cambridgeshire!
“The most we’ve ever managed is 22 miles so it’s going to be a real challenge doing 32.
“The soles of our feet were so tender on that occasion but hopefully the more we walk, the stronger and tougher they’ll get.
“More than anything, we’re looking forward to it and pleased to be raising funds for EACH.”
Jim, who lives in Milton, previously worked for a manufacturing company and before that Cambridgeshire County Council. He says his new job is very different but extremely rewarding. As facilities site manager, he is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the buildings at Milton.
“Living where we do, I’ve always been aware of EACH,” he said.
“When I saw this job advertised, I loved the idea of working at the hospice.
“I saw it as a great opportunity to utilise my experience and knowledge and I find it very rewarding and enjoyable.
“Doing the job I do, and being on site every day, means I see first-hand the amazing work my colleagues in all different departments do.
“Milton is an incredible place and, before signing up, Carrie and I also spent time reading family stories on the EACH website.
“This organisation clearly makes such a difference to so many people and I’m very keen to support it, both through my work and by signing up for events like this.”
To sponsor Jim, click here.
There is still time to sign up for EACH’s Pier to Pier walk, which gets underway at Cromer Pier and finishes at Britannia Pier, Great Yarmouth. All walkers will receive a finishers’ medal and t-shirt. There will be regular refuelling stops with snacks and drinks, a lunch break and hot food at the finish. The route is clearly marked and medical assistance will be available, if needed.
Tickets cost £30 or £40 with an optional coach transfer from the finish line at Yarmouth to the start line at Cromer. Walkers are asked to have a target sponsorship of £150.
For more information or to book a place, click here or go to each.org.uk/support-us/events/pier-to-pier-2022/