Shape up to save Wiltshire's wildlife - walk the Sarsen Trail

After the eating and drinking marathon of Christmas, January sees most of us sighing over the bathroom scales. But this year, instead of vowing to live on brown rice until Easter, or joining that expensive gym you know you'll never visit more than twice, why not start training for the Sarsen Trail, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust's annual sponsored walk and marathon?

The Sarsen Trail is a unique cross-country route between the two World Heritage Sites of Avebury and Stonehenge, covering 26 miles of the loveliest scenery in Britain. This year's event takes place on May 6, so there is plenty of time to start breaking in your walking boots. 

Started by volunteers 13 years ago, the Sarsen Trail still depends on the hard work and organisational skills of a dedicated band of over 100 people who give their time freely to the event. Ivo Smith, the Trust's Head of Fundraising, said "Since it began, the event has grown and grown, and taken on a momentum of its own. On the day, the scale of the event is absolutely incredible."

Jim Winfield, walking the 26 miles for the first time last year, raised almost £400 in sponsorship. He said "The atmosphere on the walk is absolutely great. To be walking along, then to turn around and see a mile and a half of people stretching out behind you, is an incredible feeling."

"Anyone of ordinary physical fitness should be able to walk at least half of the route," added Jim. 

If you are already in training, you can enter the Neolithic Marathon, which covers the same course and attracts runners from all over the world, or run a half-marathon from Wilsford Hill to Stonehenge.

The second half of the route crosses the Salisbury Plain Military Training Area, opened specially for the Sarsen Trail by the Ministry of Defence but usually closed to the public. This beautiful wilderness in the heart of Wiltshire provides a habitat for a stunning variety of birds, butterflies, animals, insects and wildflowers, any of which you might come across en route. The pleasure of walking through this wildlife-rich countryside is enhanced by knowing that you are helping to protect it for future generations.

Last year's Sarsen Trail attracted over 2,000 walkers and runners, and raised over £30,000 for the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, all of which is used for nature conservation in the county. For more information, or to register, contact Patrick Turner at the Trust's Headquarters on 01380 725670.

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