Over the next two weeks, local environmental charity Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is taking part in the 2.6 Challenge to raise vital funds, following the cancellation of multiple fundraising events due to COVID-19.
Members of the public are being encouraged to be part of the 2.6 campaign by joining the ‘Go Wild for Wiltshire’ team challenge atwww.justgiving.com/team/GoWildForWiltshire, and launching their own fundraisers.
Fundraiser Debbie Bentley (Melksham), who is leading the challenge by signing up to complete 26 challenges across the eight days of the campaign, said:
“I could never do a marathon, ever. But the 2.6 challenge looks great. It can be as simple or challenging as suits you. There are so many ideas. I wouldn’t normally do this kind of thing, but I hope the challenges will be fun and put a smile on people’s faces during this extraordinary time.”
Several members of the Trust have already signed up, including one member’s dog who will be undertaking 26 ball catches on Sunday 26th April when the challenge launches.
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust continues to operate during the pandemic, ensuring its 40 Nature Reserves remain open to local visitors, who should observe social distancing measures when visiting. The Trust continues to offer mental health and wellbeing support through their Wellbeing programmes, and have produced several learning resources available free of charge on their website. Staff remain busy looking after the welfare of their livestock and many wildlife species.
Dugald McNaughtan, Head of Fundraising at the Trust said:
“We hope that many people who are enjoying, or missing, the benefits of nature during lockdown will see the added value it brings to our everyday life. We are asking that they donate just £2.60, or more if they can, to this campaign. We know Wiltshire is very passionate about nature and the climate emergency and we are keen that activities should continue to protect nature recovery now and in the future.”
Anyone looking to donate or join in with the ‘Go Wild For Wiltshire’ campaign can visit the Wiltshire Wildlife website, where there is more information and links to donate or sign up. https://www.wiltshirewildlife.org/the-26-challenge . Those taking part are asked to share their own social media with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, either through sending it directly to them or tagging the Trust (@WiltsWild).