The Sandbag Times Issue No: 45

TWO friends will trek through the Western
Front this year to mark 100 years since the
end of the First World War.
David Parkinson, of Over Wallop, and
George Ashworth, of Charlton-All-Saints
will be walking through battlefield sites in
France and Belgium to raise money for the
Royal British Legion. The pair were
inspired to make the trip after attending a
rugby match in Twickenham last
Remembrance Day. George said: “I’ll be
40 this year and I was looking for something
to do that was a bit of a challenge.
When David mentioned the walk I thought,
‘it’s worthwhile and a chance to go and
see it all’. I think everyone should go to
see it.” David agreed, adding: “It should
be the national curriculum that everybody
goes to get an idea about the sacrifices
those men made.” The trip will be
poignant for both men, who will be walking
with a group of about 30 people from
across the UK. “I had three great-grandfathers
who survived the First World War,
and it’s something I’ve always held close
to my heart,” David said. And for George
it has sparked an interest in his family history.
He said: “Both of my grandfathers
served in the Second World War. This
might be an opportunity to find out more,
because I know I have got great-grandparents
who did serve in the First World War,
but I don’t know where.” The pair will lay
a wreath at Thiepval’s Memorial to the
Missing of the Somme, on behalf of
Salisbury residents, which will be a tribute
to soldiers who died in all conflicts. David
and George are set to start their training
schedule at the end of the month, ahead
NEWS
Pair To Trek Western Front In Memory Of Fallen Soldiers
of the trip in September, where they will
walk about 13 miles per day for four days.
They have currently raised just under £600
for the Royal British Legion, but hope to
reach a total of £3,000. George said: “It
would be nice to have a bit of support
from the people of Salisbury. Any donations
are gratefully received.” Visit justgiving.com/fundraising/david-parkinson27
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