FAQ's
We hope that the following information will answer most of the questions you might have about the Winston’s Wish Sunrise Walk.
We have tried to cover everything but please give us a call if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for. The Fundraising Team can be contacted on 01242 515157 or you can email sunrisewalk@winstonswish.org.uk
On the day
What are the routes for the walks?
The Gloucestershire walk will begin and end at Cheltenham Racecourse and the 10 mile walk will take a circular route, along stone paths, farm tracks and through rural terrain. The route is undulating, including several ascents and there are a number of stiles along the way around. Stunning views of the surrounding countryside, Malvern Hills and nearby towns along with numerous points of interest are assured.
The West Sussex walk will begin at Littlehampton, and will follow the beautiful coastline for the whole 10 miles, finishing at Lancing. Most of the walk will be on pavements and grass footpaths but a portion will be along a pebbly beach.
What time can I arrive at the event?
Registration will begin at 4.30am (details of the registration process will be sent to you with your event information). We ask that you arrive no later than 5am to ensure that all participants are registered in time for the 6am start.
There will be a fun warm-up to get the muscles moving, and make sure everyone is wide awake, just before the start.
How long will the walk take?
The walks are definitely not races and we anticipate it will take anything from 3 to 5 hours to complete. No walkers are allowed to run or jog and no walker must pass the nominated walk leader.
Will there be parking facilities?
For the Gloucestershire walk parking facilities will be available at Cheltenham Racecourse where the walk begins and ends.
For the West Sussex walk parking will be available at the registration venue, in Littlehampton, where the walk begins. As the West Sussex event is a linear walk (i.e. not a circular route) there will be a return transport option for walkers unable to make their own arrangements, details will be in your registration pack.
All parking will be free of charge. Details of how to find the registration venues will be sent with your final information.
Will there be refreshments available?
Drinks and snacks will provided at the half way points and a light breakfast will be available free of charge at the end of the walk to all participants. You are advised to bring your own refreshments to consume on the walk but please ensure you take all litter home with you.
What happens if I can’t finish the walk?
If you feel that you are unable to continue with the walk you must inform one of the marshals who will arrange for you to be collected by car from an appropriate point along the route. Please familiarise yourself with our training plan to help you prepare for the walk.
Click here to download the training plan. 
Do I need to bring anything for my own safety?
The safety of our walkers is of the utmost importance to us. The routes will be marshalled by volunteers who will keep you on the right route and be available to assist in the case of any emergencies. We do recommend that you bring your mobile phone, which should be switched on, fully charged and with plenty of credit on it. Please make sure this is the number you have given on your application form.
Will there be anywhere to leave any valuables?
Unfortunately there are no facilities to leave possessions at either event so please do make sure that you only bring essential items with you.
Will there be first aid facilities?
We will have first aiders available at the registration venues and along the route for the duration of the walks.
Will there be toilets en route?
Toilet facilities will be available at the start and end of the routes and at other designated points.
Preparation
What should I wear?
We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes and clothes (including your Winston’s Wish Sunrise walk T-shirt!). Neither of the walks are sheltered so you are advised to bring some suitable wet weather gear too. Of course, the weather can be notoriously unpredictable so we suggest that you wear layers that you can put on and take off as needed.
Your choice of shoes is essential for your own comfort and safety. Wear footwear that you feel comfortable and secure in. Hiking boots are recommended if you own them..
Please Note: Due to the nature of the terrain of the Gloucestershire walk the route may be muddy in some areas particularly if the weather has been wet.
Most importantly, make sure that whatever footwear you decide to walk in it’s well worn in; don’t ‘save’ new shoes for the event!
Do I need to train?
We want the Winston’s Wish Sunrise Walks to be memorable for all the right reasons. The routes are 10 miles long and the varying nature of the terrain will prove challenging to those who have not physically prepared themselves.
Click here to download the training plan.
Entry Requirements
I have a disability; can I still take part?
Due to the nature of the event we ask disabled entrants to call us prior to completing the form to discuss the suitability of the event. For advice please call 01242 515157.
How old do I need to be to take part?
Entrants must be at least 8 years old on the date of the event. An adult guardian must accompany each entrant aged under 18 for the duration of the walk. For school and youth groups there must be a ratio of two adults per five pupils. The guardian must sign the registration form in the space provided and enter separately in the Winston’s Wish Sunrise Walk. The applications must then be submitted together and the full entry fee is applicable for both entrants.We recommend that you feel comfortable that you will be able to complete a long walk.
Can we walk as a group?
Yes absolutely. You don’t need to tell us that you are walking as a group and the organisation of your group is up to you. Once you have registered you will all be able to find each other and walk together as your group.
Can I bring my family and friends to support me?
You are absolutely allowed to have supporters at the beginning and/or end of the walks; it’s great to have some familiar faces to give you that vital bit of encouragement and support just when you need it most.
Can I bring pets?
We are pleased to advise that we can accommodate dogs on the walk. Please advise us upon registration if you intend to bring a dog on the day. Your pet is your responsibility for the entire walk, must be kept on a lead at all times and any mess cleared away in a fast and appropriate way.
Fundraising
Do I have to raise a certain amount of money?
We have set a minimum sponsorship amount of £50.00 and we encourage participants to try to raise as much as they can as every penny really does count! Every walker who successfully raises over £300 by the end of November 2011 will be entered into an exciting prize draw..
You will receive sponsorship forms in your fundraising pack as well as ideas as to how you might be able to raise more money and have fun at the same time.
Click here for more tips on fundraising
When can I start raising money?
We don’t want to curb your enthusiasm, but do ask that you wait until you have had written confirmation of your place in the walk from us before you start to fundraise. From that point on the only limit is your imagination!
If you think you’ll need more sponsorship forms you are welcome to photocopy the one you have. Alternatively you can email sunrisewalk@winstonswish.org.uk or call the Fundraising Team on 01242 515157 to be sent some more.
Can I hand in my sponsor money in on the night?
We will not have the facilities to take money on the night so please do not bring any sponsor money with you. We ask that you return your sponsor money to us by the end of November 2011 by sending a cheque made payable to Winston’s Wish to:
Winston’s Wish
4th Floor
St James' House
St James' Square
Cheltenham
Glos
GL50 3PR
