Walk ‘n’ Talk with Richie the Ranger in Sefton Park and raise money for Children in Need

Liverpool’s Richie the Ranger is striding out for Pudsey with a Walk ‘n’ Talk stroll to raise money for Children in Need.

The former city park ranger is planning a two-mile trek around Sefton Park on Friday, November 18, the day of the massive fundraiser.

Richie, who now organises regular walks across Merseyside, says: “Children in Need is a great cause and, as the theme this year is Walk and Talk, I’m in the fortunate position of being able to organise an event that will raise money, encourage people to get out in the fresh air, have a good chat, and experience one of our lovely parks.

“All I ask is that people make a donation to Children in Need. Times are hard at the moment but the generosity of Merseyside folk knows no bounds and, despite the hard times, charities are still amazed at the giving nature of local people.

“Any donation, large or small, is welcome.”

Richie’s taken his inspiration from local BBC Radio stations which this year are encouraging people to Walk and Talk for Children in Need.

They want families to organise challenges to see who can walk the furthest, or get friends together for a walk in their favourite spot or, even, where they work.

As part of the campaign, keep-fit favourite Joe Wicks will be leading walks at four different parkrun locations across the UK and, if there’s no ‘Wicks walk’ in their area, people can head to any local parkrun event and walk the route. Everyone joining in will be invited to go at their own pace, and wear fancy dress, a spotty outfit, or even Pudsey ears.

Or, of course, they can join Richie in Sefton Park!

Richie says: “Walking has numerous benefits. Besides the obvious one of providing great exercise, it is also great relief for stress. Walking in the fresh air is a sure-fire way to aid better mental health and walking as a group is even better.

“Even though we have so much social media these days, it is still so easy to feel isolated. Walking in a group is a great way to combat this as folk naturally chat as they stroll and friendships can easily be made.

“Walking is one of the simple ways to better health – and a great way to have fun.”

And he adds: “The walk should be a great day as it takes place in such a lovely setting, good old Sefton Park. This year is the 150th anniversary of this beautiful park and, during the walk, folk can appreciate its beauty with its mature trees – which will still be in the last of their autumn foliage – the magnificent flora and fauna, the Victorian architecture which surrounds the park and, of course, a good old chat as we stroll.”

The walk starts at 1pm at the iron bridge, and finishes at Sefton Park Palm House: “Just in time for their Pop-Up Winter Market,” smiles Richie.

There’s no need to book for the walk, just turn up on the day. For more details contact Richie at richietheranger@gmail.com.