Walking for a Cause: Dave Pountney, Parts Manager at Startin Group, Steps Up for Charity

07 February 2024

Dave Pountney, our Parts Manager at Startin Group, along with a dedicated group of Kidderminster Harriers fans, are gearing up for an inspiring charity endeavour. On Tuesday, February 13th, they will embark on a 32-mile journey from Kidderminster to Solihull in a single day, braving the winter weather and navigating the rugged terrain of the Lickey Hills.

Over the past decade, these passionate supporters have undertaken four remarkable charity walks, each journeying significant distances to support various causes close to their hearts.

The tradition began in 2014 when over fifty fans embarked on a challenging 65-mile trek over two days to Forest Green Rovers near Stroud, all in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. This inaugural walk set the stage for future endeavours, demonstrating the power of community spirit and collective action in making a meaningful difference.

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In subsequent years, the group continued their efforts, trekking 35 miles from Kidderminster to Telford in 2015 to support Towards Tomorrow Together, a charity dedicated to baby loss. In 2017, they tackled another ambitious challenge, walking 50 miles over two days to Cheltenham in support of Birmingham Queen Elizabeth Hospital. After a brief hiatus, the group returned to their charitable pursuits, undertaking a 45-mile journey from Kidderminster to Leamington in aid of Hugs, another baby loss charity.

Remarkably, each walk has generated approximately £80,000 in donations, highlighting the unwavering commitment and generosity of the participants.

Now, in 2024, another group of walkers are preparing to take on a new challenge for a worthy cause.

Their goal? To arrive in Solihull in time for Kidderminster Harriers FC's league fixture, kicking off at 7:45 pm.

Organized through the Kidderminster Harriers Independent Supporters Trust (KHIST) and the supporters' football team, these walks have become a symbol of community spirit and compassion. One member of the group, Tom Hudson, has a deeply personal connection to the cause. Tom's daughter, Bella, has been battling leukaemia for several years, undergoing treatments and facing numerous challenges along the way.

Bella's resilience and determination have inspired her father and fellow supporters to continue their fundraising efforts.

The walk to Solihull will be dedicated to raising funds for Cure Leukaemia, the charity funding the trial that Bella is participating in. Cure Leukaemia's support for Bella and her family underscores the importance of their mission to provide access to pioneering treatments for blood cancer patients.