More than 1,200 people to take part in Bridge the Gap charity walk 2024 - and you can still benefit from discounted rate

The ever-popular Bridge the Gap charity walk takes place in Cambridge on Sunday (15 September) - and it’s not too late to sign up.

More than 1,200 people have already registered to take part, including 200 children, who will walk with their families along a route that takes in the grounds and gardens of six University of Cambridge colleges.

The discounted pre-event rate for participants of £20 per adult has been extended until midnight on Saturday (14 September). Registrations can be made at www.arhc.org.uk/btg.

Registrations made after midnight online, or at the event headquarters on Parker’s Piece between 9am and 10.30am - when the last wave of walkers will head off - will be priced at £22.50 per adult.

Money raised will benefit Arthur Rank Hospice Charity and Romsey Mill, the Cambridge-based charity that supports families.

This year’s unique route has been revealed and it takes in Christ’s, St John’s, Lucy Cavendish, Jesus and Emmanuel colleges, along with Westminster, the theological college, which is featured for the first time.

A Bridge the Gap treasure hunt for primary-aged children will also encourage them to find answers about some of the wonderful and unusual sights on the route.

Up to three under-16s can enjoy the walk for free with each registered paying adult. The treasure hunt costs £2 per entry,

Sharon Allen, chief executive at Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, said: "The Bridge the Gap charity walk has firmly established itself as a cherished event in Cambridge's vibrant social calendar. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to embrace the beauty of the city’s historic college grounds and gardens once again. I extend a warm invitation to all who haven't secured their spot to join us, for what promises to be an exceptional day and will raise important funds for those in our community who need Arthur Rank Hospice Charity’s care and support. "

The walk starts and ends at Parker’s Piece, where there will be a cake tent, refreshments and musical entertainment from The Blue Clovers and dancing from the East Anglia Swing Troupe. Waterbeach Brass Band will perform within the grounds of Emmanuel College.

Walkers are urged to bring their own water bottles and bags.Only assistance dogs are permitted within the college grounds.

The Cambridge Independent is again supporting the walk, which features The Cambridge Building Society as headline sponsor. TTP Group, Cambridge University Press and Assessment, and Cambridge City Rotary Club are also supporting the event, along with Cambridge 105 Radio.

Peter Burrows, chief executive at The Cambridge Building Society said: “Bridge the Gap is a much-loved fixture in our events calendar and one that our people and members eagerly anticipate, which is why we’re acting as headline sponsors of the walk for the 16th successive year.

“Our teams are fully invested in both fundraising and raising awareness for our charity partners, and we genuinely look forward to making a difference to so many people in our community.”

Neil Perry, chief executive at Romsey Mill, said: “Bridge the Gap is an event that shows off Cambridge at its very best! It brings together so many different parts of the city, with the involvement of local businesses, community groups, volunteers and the colleges. All contribute massively to help put on a great event for those who walk the route whilst also raising vital funds for the two charities. It really is not to be missed.”

If you have any questions or require support registering for the event, call the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity team on 01223 675888 between Monday and Friday, from 9am-5pm.