24 July 2015
Last weekend four of Shoreham Port’s employees tackled a 40 mile charity walk in aid of Action Medical Research for Children. The South Downs Plod covered a stretch of the South Downs Way from Devils Dyke in Brighton to Beachy Head in Eastbourne.
At exactly midnight the team proceeded into the night armed with high vis. jackets and head torches. There were seven check points located across the route and these were a welcome break for walkers keen to re-stock their food and water supplies.
By check point two the sun was beginning to rise, revealing the spectacular views across Sussex. At check point three the team were still going strong, blister free and ready to enjoy a nice cooked breakfast. By check point five (around mile 25) the aches and pains were beginning to surface, however the team plodded on towards Cuckmere Haven.
After passing through beautiful Cuckmere Haven the team were faced with the daunting prospect of climbing the Seven Sisters. This relentless set of hills, placed unfortunately during the last stretch of the walk, was the final challenge before the team caught sight of the finishing line.
After defeating the Seven Sisters the team marched onto the finish and completed the walk in an impressive 13 hours and 45 minutes. There was great elation and relief as the team crossed the line and reflected on their mighty hike that began the day before!
In total the Port Plodders raised over £1,100 for the charity, with more late sponsors expected over the next few weeks.
Katie Orchin, captain of the Port Plodders commented “The Plod was a gruelling and amazing experience. I will never forget the sight of seeing so many head torches lighting up the South Downs Way as we started our journey. I would like to say a huge thank you to all of our staff and friends and family who sponsored us and helped us raise so much for this fantastic and life changing charity.”
