On Sunday 17th December, I aim to run from South Parade Pier to the end of the Hayling Island Billy Line return in aid of The Camrose Centre, a local Charity in Basingstoke. The course is 30 miles or 50 km's with the main aim being - Beating the tide.
This will be the 7th year for the Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon. It is a unique multi terrain marathon with some fantastic views across Langstone Harbour.
The Camrose Centre could not run without its team of enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers. The Camrose Centre has been running since January 2008 and was initiated by a group of local volunteers who had recognised an increasing issue within the town concerning vulnerable, isolated and homeless people. The Centre was initially under the umbrella of Trinity Winchester until June 2012 when the then current building in Vyne Road, Basingstoke was no longer available and Trinity withdrew their management of the service. At that time, Basingstoke Voluntary Action stepped in to ensure the work of Camrose could continue and develop.
Camrose currently operates in the Glebe Hall attached to St Michaels Church in Basingstoke Town Centre and is open from 10.00am to 2.00pm Tuesdays & Thursday, providing a continuous self-service breakfast and a hot lunch.
The service that organisation can presently deliver is limited and so there is an urgent need to relocate to a more suitable building to enable a more comprehensive service to be delivered to their clients, including vocational training to help them achieve a more independent lifestyle.
Other agencies and organisations who support Camrose clients provide advice on: mental health, substance abuse, relationships and children.
This Charity helped me to get through some very difficult times during 2012-2014 by way of offering me much needed support and advice aswell as a place to stay. Without their help I probably wouldn't be where I am today.
Please only donate what you can.
Merry Christmas all.
Pritch x
