Builder calls time on the long march for charity

A BUILDER is hanging up his trainers after pounding 1,000 miles around Calderdale’s streets for charity.

Nick Broadbent, 52, has taken part in the Long March 38 times.

The annual event starts at midnight on Easter Day and raises money for Christian Aid.

His first attempt, aged 14, was in 1972. Since then Mr Broadbent has missed just three events, and has been the first participant across the finishing line nine times.

But he has vowed this year’s overnight hike will be his last.

Mr Broadbent, of Salterhebble Terrace, Halifax, said: “It’s a good cause and it’s always a bit of a challenge. There are plenty of people to go along the route with.”

His daughter Gail has joined him for three of his 38 walks.

The route, which is either 26 or 30 miles long, is kept under wraps until the night.

Each year, the event starts and finishes at the YMCA, Crossley Street.

Mr Broadbent, who has joined the organising committee, is planning the route for the walkers and few runners who take part.

“I’ll continue to help out, but if I say I’m going to do something, I usually do.

“I think 1,000 miles is a nice landmark. I could go on forever but I think this is a nice time to finish,” said Mr Broadbent.

The event started in 1966, when 1,500 people pulled on their trainers to raise 5,400, and despite being low on both participants and safety marshalls throughout its history, it is now in its 45th year.

Entry forms for this year’s event have to be received by Saturday.

The senior regional co-ordinator for Christian Aid in Yorkshire, Alex Jones, said: “This is one of West Yorkshire’s treasures. Over its lifespan thousands of people have made a difference to the lives of some of the poorest people in the world.”

Application forms for walkers or helpers are available from the Tourist Information Centres in Calderdale or the YMCA in Halifax or from the website: www.longmarch.org.uk