Walk around Willen Lake, Milton Keynes Saturday, December 3, 2005 As forecast by the weather pundits, the morning of Saturday, December 3, turned out to be cloudy but relatively bright. Today was the sponsored walk-in aid of earthquake relief for which the organising committee had worked hard at finding sponsors. On arrival at the venue, by the cafeteria at Willen Lake, Milton Keynes, the cloud cover had become a tad heavier but it did not, to quote a cliché, dampen the spirits of the participants. The people trickled in by the appointed time, 11:00 AM. Handing out the green ribbon to all participants, it was calculated that around 50 people, including children had turned out. Given the weather conditions, this was a major achievement and hats off to all who attended. This showed their commitment and dedication to the cause. By the time the walk started at 11:10, the heavens had opened up. So after a quick group photograph, they were off on the first of two laps, anti-clockwise on the path around Willen Lake. The rain had become heavier and the wind picked up, increasing the wind chill considerably, as anyone who was not wearing gloves and a hat would testify. The only other people (non-participants I might add ) at the lake were in the cafeteria enjoying a hot cup of coffee. There was also the odd jogger going about his morning run. A few participants were performing child minding duties for younger children who could not walk the roughly 3 miles around the lake. The only other living thing at the lake were a couple of water skiers ( in this cold, I thought ?) and a number of swans and ducks.
The first ones to return were the young boys, who shouted we are first. Too late, I thought, as nobody had thought of some gifts or trivia to hand out to the kids who did the walk. Within 50 minutes all the walkers had completed the first lap. And they were off for the second after a breather. By now the weather had improved, with the rain petering out and the sky brightening up. Half way through the lap, the sun was breaking through the clouds and soon after the lap was completed, it completely broke through. By this time, everybody was in the cafeteria having a breather, a hot cup of tea and exchanging jokes. It was opportunity to meet many other families who live around Milton Keynes.
More importantly, the event raised around £3,500 approximately. This is by no means final and will grow as all the committee members have to finalise their collections by December 14. It is expected to top the £4000 mark. All funds will be given to KEF's Earthquake Relief and Rehabilitation plan.
All in all, a good effort by all the ladies doing the organisation. Thank you all for your time and efforts in making this a success given the short time that was available in coming up with the idea and organising it.
Going around the lake in waterproof and warm clothing and a warm home to return to afterwards, I could still feel the bitter chill of the winter wind and the rain, and could not help but think about the earthquake affectees who had nothing left and had to try and survive in even colder temperatures. Let us hope and pray that the money raised will go some way in alleviating their plight.
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