The final figures are in and show that the fourth annual “Walk for Stroke” organised by Bristol After Stroke (BAS) has been their most successful yet.

The walk brings together stroke-affected people from Bristol and South Gloucester, together with their families and supporters, to celebrate their recovery journeys as well as raise vital funds to support the work of the charity.

This year’s event, which this year took place on Saturday 19 September at Eastville Park, saw over 210 walkers sign up for the one, three and six-mile routes around the park and along the Frome Valley Walkway – a 50 % increase on last year’s record number.

Local BBC presenter Joe Sims, along with Lord Mayor Cllr Yassin Mohamud, were on hand to start the race as well as talk to and encourage those taking part; and, despite the persistent rain, everyone who started completed their course.

On top of that, some £34,600 was raised, including a generous £10,000 match funding donation from John James Bristol Foundation.

Two of the walkers – Niraj Sharda and Richard Dempster – each raised over £4,500.

“The walk just goes from strength to strength,” said BAS CEO Rebecca Sheehy, “and for many of those taking part it has become a real milestone in their recovery journey – a target to train for and see how much progress they are making.

“Every year we get lots of tears at the finish line as stroke-affected people achieve what they might have thought impossible in the first months after their stroke. It’s the emotional equivalent of completing the London Marathon for many walkers!”

Niraj Sharda was one of those taking part in his first walk following a major stroke several years ago. The mile he walked in just over 90 minutes, supported by his family, was easily the furthest he has managed since.

The 49-year-old said: “The collective unity on show that day really did highlight that although we face significant adversity and are constantly navigating life-changing difficulties, we are also extremely fortunate to have such compassionate and dedicated support to guide us through our recovery. 

“For that I am very grateful." 

“The event has become a hugely inspiring day for everyone concerned,” says Rebecca Sheehy. “We couldn’t have done it without the generosity of our sponsors as well as the support of all those making donations - not forgetting the musical contributions of the Bristol A Capella group and the Ilu Axé samba band.

“The money we’ve raised will now help hundreds of stroke-affected people on their recovery journey over the coming 12 months through our groups, activities, counselling and mentoring.”